The Improvement Era

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DECEMBER, 1922
VOL. 26 NO. 2

ORGAN OF THE PRIESTHOOD
QUORUMS, THE YOUNG MENS
MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIA-
TIONS AND THE SCHOOLS OF THE
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF w
LATTER-DAY SAINTS «w«w«*«w

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE

GENERAL BOARD YM.MJA

SALT LAKE CITY

UTAH

READ IT

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is read in more homes than
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-JLii » • Peop/e /ike it •

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WHEN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION THE IMPROVEMENT ERA

Jf or Cfjrisftmas; Jfflorn

1922

Swift pass the years, again it is the morn
That speaks of Him and of His gentle life;
Ten centuries and nine since He was born,
The Prince of Peace who came to conquer strife.
Yea, now the anthem rises in His praise,
The holly wreath hangs in the church and home,
Yea, the child Jesus, star to Herod's days,
From Bethlehem hath vanquished pagan Rome.
Yet war on war sweeps on from land to land,
Christ's reign of love upon the sword yet waits ;
'Twixt Hope and Fear the nations anxious stand,
From Russian snows to Smyrna's broken gates ;
0, while men's passions, sea-like, rage and toss,
Be not in vain His anguish on the Cross!

Alfred Lambourne

ELDER DAVID O. McKAY
Of the Council of the Twelve, who left on November 8 to preside over
the European mission. At the recent semiannual Conference he said:
'Two-thousand missionaries were preaching, by 'plain living and high tfimh-
ing,' the efficacy of 'Mormonism.' There should be about two-hundred-
fifty times two-thousand missionaries in the organized wards and brandies
of the Church, who by example in the home, by devotion and service tc*
God should preach the gospel, and show that they believe and know that
God is our Father."

IMPROVEMENT ERA

Vol. XXVI DECEMBER, 1922 No. 2

On Government and Law*

Letttr-day Saints Counseled to Obey the Laws of God and Man
By President Heber J. Grant

It is a source of great pleasure and satisfaction to me to see such
a magnificent audience here today, almost completely filling this
house. I am sure that those who are standing in the gallery and on
the south side of the building, by a little closing up on the part of
the audience, could all have a seat. I have no recollection of ever
seeing an audience here on a week day, in the opening of our con-
ference, where there were so many people standing when we com-
menced speaking. There could be no greater evidence of the interest of
the Latter-day Saints than is shown by this great outpouring of people
at the first meeting of our General Conference, and I am grateful to
all those who are here assembled. I know you have come here with a
desire to be fed the bread of life. I have no desire whatever to say
anything to you this morning except that which may be for your bene-
fit, as well as for my own.

ENGAGED FOR MANY YEARS IN PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL

Forty years ago this October conference, I met the late Elder
George Teasdale of the Council of the Twelve, at the south gate, and
he shook hands with me and said: "Brother Grant, I am delighted
to see you. You and I are going to be" — and he stopped suddenly
and his face turned red; but the Lord gave me the balance of the
sentence. Four times in my life I have been permitted to read the
thoughts of people. The balance of Brother Teasdale's sentence was —
"sustained this afternoon as apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ to fill
the vacancies in the Quorum," and that went through me
like a shock of electricity. I came to the Sunday afternoon meet-
ing of the conference, because of this partial sentence, and the bal-
ance that was given to me, with the assurance in my heart that Brother
Teasdale and myself would be sustained as apostles. Those of you
who were at that conference remember that it adjourned without fill-
ing those vacancies. I do not believe that any mortal man ever more

*Opening speech at the late Semi-annual Conference of the Church, Oct. 6, 1922.

Entered at the Post Office, Salt Lake City, Utah, as second class matter. Ac-
ceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1 103, Act of>
October 3, 1917, authorized on July 2, 1918, $2 per annum.

Address Room 406 Church Office Building, Salt Lake City, Utah.

98 IMPROVEMENT ERA

humbly supplicated God during the next few days to forgive him for
his egotism than I did for thinking that I was to be chosen as an
apostle. As you are aware, within a week a revelation came to
John Taylor calling Brother Teasdale and myself to those positions.
For forty years I have been engaged in proclaiming the gospel of
the Lord Jesus Christ and bearing witness to my knowledge that
God lives, that Jesus is the Christ, the Savior of the world, that
Joseph Smith is a prophet of the true and the living God. I have had
the privilege of bearing that testimony in nearly every state of the
Union, in Canada on the north, in Mexico on the south, in the Hawai-
ian Islands, in far-off Japan, in England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales.
Germany, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, France, Italy, Norway, Swe-
den, and Denmark, and I have had exceeding great joy, during all of
those forty years, in bearing this testimony.

I was undecided in my mind, before coming to this meeting which
of the many things that I had read in the Book of Mormon and in
the Doctrine and Covenants I would speak upon. The only question was :
Which is the one theme to present? I have no hesitancy now as to
the thing to talk about, because the opening prayer was on the identi-
cal subject of the first item that I read this morning in the Doctrine
and Covenants, and that was to sustain and to uphold the laws of the
land.

BELIEF OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS ON GOVERNMENT AND
LAWS IN GENERAL

I have been criticized, time and time again, by friends and others,
and have had much splendid advice given to me not to read so much
in public because nothing could be more tiresome to an audience than
reading; but I am not here for the purpose of saying something to
tickle your ears or to please you, but I am here with a prayer in my
heart to say those things that shall be for your best good and benefit,
and mine also. I honestly believe that it will be for our best good to
hear every word of an entire section of the Doctrine and Covenants
which is:

"A Declaration of Belief regarding Governments and Laws in general,
adopted by unanimous vote at a general assembly of the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints, held at Kirtland, Ohio, August 17, /VJ5." (Section 134.)

"We believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of
man ; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both
in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society.

"We believe that no government can exist in peace, except such laws are
framed and held inviolate as will secure to each individual the free exercise
of conscience, the right and control of property, and the protection of life."
(And that means the right to labor without taking the chance of being killed.)

"We believe that all governments necessarily require civil officers and
magistrates) to enforce the laws of the same ; and that such as will administer
the law in equity and justice should be sought for and upheld by the voice
of the people (if a republic) or the will of the sovereign.

"We believe that religion is instituted of God ; and that men are amenable
to him, and to him only, for the exercise of it, unless their religious opinions

ON GOVERNMENT AND LAW 99

prompt them to infringe upon the rights and liberties of others ; but we do not
believe that human law has a right to interfere in prescribing rules of wor-
ship to bind the consciences of men, nor dictate forms for public or private
devotion ; that the civil magistrate should restrain crime, but never control
conscience ; should punish guilt, but never suppress the freedom of the soul.

"We believe that all men are bound to sustain and uphold the respective
governments in which they reside, while protected in their inherent and in-
alienable rights by the laws of such governments ; and that sedition and re-
bellion are unbecoming every citizen thus protected, and should be punished
accordingly ; and that all governments have a right to enact such laws as in
their own judgments are best calculated to secure the public interest; at the
same time, however, holding sacred the freedom of conscience.

"We believe that every man should be honored in his station, rulers and
magistrates as such, being placed for the protection of the innocent and the
punishment of the guilty; and that to the laws all men owe respect and defer-
ence, as without them peace and harmony would be supplanted by anarchy
and terror; human laws being instituted for the express purpose of regulating
our interests as individuals and nations, between man and man ; and divine
laws given of heaven, prescribing rules on spiritual concerns, for faith and
worship, both to be answered by man to his Maker.

"We believe that rulers, states, and governments have a right, and are
bound to enact laws for the protection of all citizens in the free exercise of
their religious belief; but we do not believe that they have a right in justice
to deprive citizens of this privilege, or proscribe them in their opinions, so
long as a regard and reverence are shown to the laws and such religious
opinions do not justify sedition nor conspiracy.

"We believe that the commission of crime should be punished according to
the nature of the offense; that murder, treason, robbery, theft, and the breach
of the general peace, in all respects, should be punished according to their crim-
inality, and their tendency to evil among men, by the laws of that govern-
ment in which the offense is committed ; and for the public peace and tran-
quility, all men should step forward and use their ability in bringing offenders
against go,od laws to punishment.

"We do not believe it just to mingle religious influence with civil gov-
ernment, whereby one religious society is fostered and another proscribed in its
spiritual privileges, and the individual rights of its members, as citizens, denied.

"We believe that a1l religious societies have a right to deal with their mem-
bers for disorderly conduct, according to the rules and regulations of such so-
cieties; provided that such dealings be for fellowship and good standing; but
we do not believe that any religious society has authority to try men on the
right of property or life, to take from them this world's goods, or to put them
in jeopardy of either life or limb, or to inflict any physical punishment upon
them. They can only excommunicate them from their society, and withdraw
from them their fellowship.

"We believe that men should appeal to the civil law for redress of all
wrongs and grievances, where personal abuse is inflicted, or the right of prop-
erty or character infringed, where such laws exist as will protect the same; but
we believe that all men are justified in defending themselves, their friends,
ana property, and the government, from the unlawful assaults and encroach-
ments of all persons in times of exigency, where immediate appeal cannot be
made to the laws, and relief afforded.

"We believe it just to preach the gospel to the nations of the earth, and
warn the righteous to save themselves from the corruption of the world ; but
we do not believe it right to interfere wih bond-servants, neither preach the
gospel to, nor baptize them, contrary to the will and wish of their masters, nor
to meddle with or influence them in the least, to cause them to be dissatisfied

100 IMPROVEMENT ERA

with their situation in this life, thereby jeopardizing the lives of men; such
interference we believe to be unlawful and unjust, and dangerous to the peace
of every government allowing human beings to be held in servitude."

DUTY OF THE SAINTS TO SUSTAIN AND LIVE THE LAW

I endorse with all my heart this declaration sustained by the
unanimous vote of the general conference in 1835. I am convinced
beyond the shadow of a doubt that it is the duty of every Latter-day
Saint to sustain and live the law. I believe that every Latter-day Saint
who has any idea in his or her heart that some law has been passed
that is not a righteous law, after it has been fought out in the courts
and has been decided, whatever the decision may be, by the highest
tribunal of our great and glorious country, the Supreme Court of
the United States, that it is his duty to obey such law. I believe that
every Latter-day Saint — and by the way no man is a Latter-day Saint
who drinks whisky — but any "Mormon" who drinks whisky today
knows that he is in condemnation before the Lord Almighty, whether
he is the one who bought the whisky, or whether he is simply a par-
taker of it. I believe that every Latter-day Saint owes it to himself
to uphold and sustain what is known as the cigarette law, and I be-
lieve that we as a people should know by the announcement of every
man who is to be elected to the legislature, that he will stand for that
law, and if he will not so announce himself, if his opponent, no matter
what his politics may be, will stand for that law, that we ought to bury
our politics and vote for the man favoring the retaining and enforcing
of the cigarette law.

BEST MEN SHOULD BE CHOSEN REGARDLESS OF POLITICS

Politics reminds me very much of the measles. The measles don't
hurt much if you will take a little saffron tea or something else to
keep them on the surface, but if they once set in on you, they turn
your hide yellow and sometimes make you cross-eyed. So do not let
politics set in on you. I believe absolutely in the best men for office.
I believe in honest, upright, good men being chose to occupy places
and positions in the state and in the Church.

THE SAINTS BELIEVE IN THE WORDS OF THE PROPHET JOSEPH

We testify to all the world that Joseph Smith met the Creator of
heaven and earth. We testify to all the world that in answer to the
question asked of God, as to which of all the various religions in
the world had the truth, that God pointed to his son, Jesus Christ,
and announced that he was his well beloved Son and said: "Hear
him," and that the Savior of the world told Joseph Smith to join
none of them. We believe that the man who promulgated these state-
ments regarding government and laws was a prophet of the living
God. We believe the statements made in the section following what
I have read to you — and by the way, as I am not here to please you,
I will also read Section 135:

ON GOVERNMENT AND LAW 101

"Martyrdom of Joseph Smith the Prophet, and his brother, Hyrum Smith
the Patriarch, at Carthage, Illinois, June 27, 1844.

"To seal the testimony of this book and the Book of Mormon, we an-
nounce the martyrdom of Joseph Smith the Prophet, and Hyrum Smith the
Patriarch. They were shot in Carthage jail, on the 27th of June, 1844, about
five o'clock p. m., by an armed mob — painted black — of from 150 to 200 per-
sons. Hyrum was shot first and fell calmly, exclaiming: / am a dead man!
Joseph leaped from the window, and was shot dead in the attempt, exclaim-
ing: 0 Lord, my God! They were both shot after they were dead, in a
brutal manner, and both received four balls.

"John Taylor and Willard Richards, two of the Twelve, were the only
persons in the room at the time; the former was wounded in a savage man-
ner with four balls, but has since recovered; the1 latter, through the provi-
dence of God, escaped, without even a hole in his robe.

"Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more,
save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other
man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has
brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and
power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two con-
tinents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained,
to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and
commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and
many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the chil-
dren of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded
a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. He lived
great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most
of the Lord's anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his
works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were
not divided, and in death they were not separated!

"When Joseph went to Carthage to deliver himself up to the pretended
requirements of the law, two or three days previous to his assassination,
he said: 'I am going like a lamb to the slaughter; but I am calm as a
summer's morning; I have a conscience void of offense towards God, and
towards all men. I shall die innocent, and it shall yet be said of me — he
was murdered in cold blood.'" (And that is said of him all over the world,
whether by members of the Church or not, who are familiar with all the
circumstances. A more dastardly, outrageous murder was never before
committed in the world.)

"The same morning, after Hyrum had made ready to go — shall it be
said to the slaughter? yes, for so it was — he read the following paragraph,
near the close of the twelfth chapter of Ether, in the Book of Mormon,
and tunned down the leaf upon it:

"'And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord that he would give
unto the Gentiles grace, that they might have charity. And it came to
pass that the Lord said unto me: If they have not charity it mattereth not
unto thee, thou hast been faithful; wherefore thy garments are clean. And
because thou hast seen thy weakness, thou shalt be made strong, even
un+o the sitting down in the place which I have prepared in the mansions
of my Father. And now I * * * bid farewell unto the Gentiles; yea,
and also unto my brethren whom I love, until we shall meet before the
judgment-seat of Christ, where all men shall know that my garments are
not spotted with yor blood.' The testators are now dead, and their testament
is1 in force."

My mother, as a young- woman, lived in Nauvoo for years. She
assured me that no more God-fearing, upright mortal ever trod the

102 IMPROVEMENT ERA

earth than Hyrum Smith, the Patriarch, and I have no doubt what-
ever as to the absolute exaltation of Joseph and Hyrum in the presence
of the Lord. I have no doubt that these two men are assisting in
directing, by the power that they have on the other side, the work of
God here on the earth, notwithstanding their martyrdom.

"Hyrum Smith was forty-four years old in February, 1844, and Joseph
Smith was thirty-eight in December, 1843; and henceforward their names will
be classed among the martyrs of religion ; and the reader in every nation will
be reminded that the Book of Mormon, and this book of Doctrine and Cove-
nants of the Church, cost the best blood of the nineteenth century to bring
them forth for the salvation pi a ruined world ; and that if the fire can scathe
a green tree for the glory of God, how easy it will burn up the dry trees to
purify thq vineyard of corruption. They lived for glory; they died for glory;
anid glory is their eternal reward. From age to age shall their names go
down to posterity as gems for the sanctified.

"They were innocent of any crime, as they had often been proved before,
and were only confined in jail by the conspiracy of traitors and wicked men;
and their innocent blood on the floor of Carthage jail is a broad seal affixed
to 'Mormonism' that cannot be rejected by any court on earth, and their in-
nocent blood on the escutcheon of the State of Illinois, with the broken faith
of the State as pledged by the governor, is a witness to the truth of the ever-
lasting gospel that all the world cannot impeach ; and their innocent blood on
the banner of liberty, and on the magna charta of the United States, is an
ambassador for the religion of Jesus Christ, that will touch the hearts of
honest men among all nations ; and their innocent blood, with the innocent
blood of all the martyrs under the altar that John 'saw, will cry unto the Lord of
Hosts till he avenges that blood on the earth."

THIS AUDIENCE A TESTIMONY TO THE DIVINITY OF THE CHURCH

I have understood that this splendid account of the martyrdom of
Joseph and Hyrum Smith was written by President John Taylor,
known as the "Champion of Liberty" who received four shots in his
body and who lived carrying some of those bullets to his grave, and
who, years after the martyrdom, stood before the people in this stand
as the President, Prophet, Seer and Revelator of the Church of Jesus
Christ. Men may conspire, men may work against the Church of
God again established upon the earth, but the statement here made
that no man, saving Jesus Christ himself, has done more for the sal-
vation of humanity than did Joseph Smith, cannot be controverted. I
am at the defiance of the world to have any religious people, I do not
care where you go, with no more members than the Latter-day Saints
have, to call a conference of the people and have such a splendid
audience as there is here today. This very audience is a testimony to
every living soul who stops to reflect upon it, that God has in very
deed, through the instrumentality of Joseph Smith, established again
upon the earth the plan of life and salvation ; that Jesus Christ did
direct him. All the disbelief of all the world that God and Jesus
Christ spoke to him, cannot change the fact, if it is a fact — and God
has given to me, to hundreds and thousands, and tens of thousands of
his children, from the country of the Midnight Sun, Scandinavia, clear

ON GOVERNMENT AND LAW 103

down to South Africa, all over Europe, from Canada to South America,
and all over the Islands of the sea, an absolute witness by the Holy
Spirit that Joseph Smith is in very deed a Prophet of the living God.

FALSEHOODS STILL PROMULGATED COCERNING THE CHURCH

Allow me to read a news clipping sent me in a letter by former
Governor John C. Cutler. He says: "I thought the annexed clipping
would be information to you, as it was to me":

"MORMON LEADER POLITICAL BOSS SAYS REFORMER

(Exclusive Dispatch)

"IVinona Lake (Ind.) August 9. — The most powerful political private
individual in America today is H. J. Grant, head of the 'Mormon' Kingdom,"
declared Dr. James S. Martin of Pittsburg, superintendent of the National
Reform Association, in addressing the annual Christian Citizenship Institute
here today. "Twenty-six years ago," he continued, "there was not a principal
man in all 'Mormondom' who had even s,o much as a vote. AH had been dis-
franchised by the United States government on account of their crimes. To-
day H. J. Grant patronizes presidents, makes bargains with great political
parties, dictates the political policies of Utah and at least five surrounding
states and wields effective political influences in at least five others."

The gentleman must have been listening to one of the lying
speeches of a notorious anti-" Mormon" woman. Martin is the Super-
intendent of the National Reform Association. If he is properly
quoted he better reform himself, and purge himself of falsehood.
There is a special place prepared for his kind, and if he does not repent
he will land there. I announce to all the world that I do not even
control, politicaly, Utah, and that I have no desire to control Utah, that
I have never opened my mouth in favor of or against any individual
in any of the adjacent states that he is reported to say I control po-
litically. Joseph Smith was told that his name "should be had for
good and evil among all nations," or that it should be both "good and
evil spoken of among all people," and we, his successors, have had
the same privilege. We have been lied about most scandalously. One
anti-" Mormon" is reported to have said that I had fifteen million
dollars in a Wall Street bank, as Trustee-in-Trust for the Church ;
and I never had fifteen cents.

DISBELIEF AND LIES OF THE WORLD CAN NOT STOP THE PROGRESS

OF THE WORK

As I have said, all the disbelief of all the world and all the lies
of men like Doctor Martin, who might inform themselves and there-
fore do not need to tell these lies, cannot stop the progress of this
work. Just to show you that it cannot be stopped, let me read a°"ain
what the Lord told Joseph Smith when he was incarcerated in Liberty
Jail. You cannot keep the revelations of the Lord even from com-
ing to the Prophet while in a jail. I will let you read some of it
yourselves. It is Section 121. Read it all. I will start with the 33rd
verse :

104 IMPROVEMENT ERA

"How long can rolling waters remain impure? What power shall stay the
heavens ? As well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri
river in its decreed course, or to turn it up stream, as to hinder the Almighty
from pouring down knowledge from heaven upon the heads of the Latter-day
Saints.

"Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they
not chosen?

"Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and
aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson —

"That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the
powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor
handled only upon the principles of righteousness."

Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, John Taylor, or any one of his
successors, cannot, and never could, handle the powers of heaven only
in righteousness, and they never tried to.

"That they may be conferred upon us, it is true ; but when we undertake
to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise
control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men,
in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves ;
the Spirit of the Lord is grieved ; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the
priesthood or the authority of that man.

"Behold, ere he is aware, he is left unto himself, to kick against the pricks,
to persecute the saints, and to fight against God.

"We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition
of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they
will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.

"Hence many are called, but few are chosen.

"No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the
priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness,
and by love unfeigned;

"By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul
without hypocrisy, and without guile —

"Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost;
and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom
thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy;

"That he may know that thy faithfulness is stronger than the cords of
death.

"Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the house-
hold of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy
confidence wax strong in the presence of God ; and the doctrine of the priest-
hood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven.

"The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter an
unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion shall be an
everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee
forever and ever."

Liberty Jail did not keep back the inspiration of the living God
from Joseph Smith ; as few if any greater revelations have ever been
given us than this one received in Liberty Jail.

I will now quote from section 76:

"And this is the Gospel, the glad tidings, which the voice out of the
heavens* bore record unto us —

ON GOVERNMENT AND LAW i05

''That he came into the world, even Jesus, to be crucified for the world,
and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse
it from all unrighteousness." (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 76.)

That is the testimony of the gospel that we bear to all the
world. Men have said: "We believe that Jesus Christ lives, but we
don't know it." Two men at least knew it, and here is their testi-
mony ; this is the testimony of Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon :

"And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this
is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

"For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice
bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father —

"That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were
created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto
God."

OUR SACRIFICES FOR THE GOSPEL A PROOF OF OUR LOVE FOR IT

"Oh but," says one, "I don't believe it." Once more allow me
to announce that all the disbelief of all the world cannot change the
fact, if it is a fact, and God has given to thousands and tens of thou-
sands the witness by the revelations of his Holy Spirit that it is a fact,
that "Mormonism" socalled by the world, is in very deed the plan of
life and salvation ; that Joseph Smith was in very deed the Prophet
of the true and living God. People say: "We cannot understand the
strength of "Mormonism," we cannot understand why two thousand
young men and young women at one time, at their own expense or
at the expense of their families, will go into the world, giving their
time without money and without price, to proclaim the gospel losing
their wages, paying their own way, to proclaim your faith." Every
Latter-day Saint can understand it. They understand it because those
young men and those young women who go out to proclaim the gos-
pel, live it, they in very deed are fulfilling the requirements laid down
by the Savior "to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind,
might and strength," and the next great commandment, "to love our
neighbor as ourselves." No other people in all the world are giving
such an evidence of the love of God and the love of their fellows as
is given by our missionaries. Day after day the majority of all the
letters that come to the desk of the Presidency of the Church are from
young men and young women who are called upon missions, and it is
the rarest thing in the world to find a missionary call that is not
favorably and willingly answered.

When we send out these calls for missions the answer comes back :
"I thank the Lord that he has seen fit to inspire his servants to call
me upon a mission. It has been the dream of my life." Another : "My
heart has always longed to go forth and proclaim this gospel of Jesus
Christ. I am grateful that the call has come." That is the class of
letters that we get day after day. There are tens of thousands of men
and women who have gone forth to proclaim this gospel, and the
amount of sacrifice in actual dollars, in proportion to our numbers,

id6 Improvement era

is almost beyond calculation. When you figure that these people
could earn probably, on an average, $100 per month, that they are
spending from $20 to, in same cases, $60 and $70 a month, an average
probably of nearly $50; that two thousand or nearly that number, and
sometimes it has been in excess, are giving all this time and this ex-
pense ; add it together and it amounts to several million dollars a year,
and all done with no hope of earthly reward.

THE UNCERTAIN REPLIES OF THE MINISTERS

I remember while proclaiming the gospel in England I ran
across a book written by ex-Senator Beveridge, I believe he was
then a senator, entitled, The Young Man and the World. I have re-
ferred to it many times here, but I desire to rofer to it again. In that
book I found chapters on, "The Young Man and the Pulpit," "The
Young Man and His Home," "The Young Man and the Law ;" and
in the chapter on "The Young Man and the Pulpit," he said that a
certain individual with very splendid chances for favorable answers,
with good opportunities during an entire summer vacation asked of all
the ministers that he met, three questions and he announced before
coming to those questions that one of the greatest transportation men
in all the United States had said that he would rather have a knowl-
edge that we live again and that the soul is immortal than to have
the greatest honor and the greatest position that could be given in all
the world, and he told of another man that was just an ordinary ward
politician who said he thought of many strange things — "Is the soul
immortal and what is the soul anyway?" The three questions were
as follows:

"First, yes or no, Do you believe in God, the Father; God a per-
son, God a definite and tangible intelligence — not a congeries of laws
floating like a fog through the universe; but God a person, in whose
image you were made? Don't argue; don't explain; but is your mind
in a condition where you can answer yes or no?"

"Not a man answered, "Yes." Each man wanted to explain that
the Deity might be a definite intelligence or might not ; that the 'latest
thought' was much confused upon the matter, and so forth and so on."

Then the next question:

"Yes or no : Do you believe that Christ was the Son of the living-
God, sent by him to save the world? I am not asking whether you
believe that he was inspired, in the sense that the great moral teachers
are inspired — nobody has any difficulty about that. But do you be-
lieve that Christ was God's very Son, with a divinely appointed and
definite mission, dying on the cross and raised from the dead — yes
or nor

"Again not a single answer with an unequivocal, earnest 'Yes.'
But again explanations were offered and in at least half the instances
the sum of most of the answers was that Christ was the most perfect

ON GOVERNMENT AND LAW 107

man that the world had seen, and humanity's greatest moral teacher.''
He was not a great moral teacher if he was not the Son of God,
because he announced himself as the Son of God. He announced
himself as the Redeemer of the world, and therefore he could not be
a great moral teacher, if the foundation upon which he stood was a
falsehood.

The third question was :

"Do you believe that when you die you will live again as a con-
scious intelligence, knowing who you are and who other people are?"

"Again, not one answer was unconditionally affirmative. 'Of
course they were not sure as a matter of knowledge.' 'Of course that
could not be known positively.' "

THE DEFINITE ANSWER OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS TO THESE QUESTIONS

The Latter-day Saints everywhere in the wide world, without
one moment's hesitation, would answer: "Yes, yes, yes," to all three
of those questions. We have no doubt that God is a person. Joseph
Smith saw him and talked with him. We have no doubt that Jesus
Christ is the Redeemer of the world because he declared that to Sidney
Rigdon and to Joseph Smith in the declaration that I have just read
to you. We have no doubt, because Jesus Christ appeared in the Kirt-
land temple to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. We have abso-
lutely no doubt whatever regarding the immortality of the soul — •

"And should we die before our journey's through,

Happy day ! all is well !
We then are free from toil and sorrow too,

With the just we shall dwell."

I had a lettex from the vice-president of a great banking institu-
tion, to whom I sang this song when he was in Utah, and he asked me
for a copy of it. A few days later he repeated to me the last verse,
and said:

"Those are wonderfully inspiring words. I have never read a
verse of any hymn that taught such an absolute, firm conviction in
the immortality of the soul."

In a letter which he wrote to me he referred to those words again,
and he said: "I consider these the most sublime words I have ever
heard. They inspire to courage and that beautiful confidence in the
immortality of the soul that raises man to the stature of a God."

Latter-day Saints answer those questions "Yes, yes, yes." Mr.
Beveridge says that these ministers were among the most eloquent and
high-grade ministers in the Eastern and New England states, and
that they felt there was a decline of faith among the people. In that
connection he said :

"Is it possible that such priests of interrogation could warm the
hearts of men?" He-.' .went on to .say before he asked these quetsions
that any man who stood up in the pulpit and undertook to teach the

108 IMPROVEMENT ERA

doctrines of Christ, when he lacked a faith in those doctrines himself,
committed a sacrilege every time he entered the pulpit.

BELIEVE WHAT YOU SAY

I have heard it said that "damn" is not swearing, that it is only-
emphasis. I was preaching one night with the late President John
Henry Smith, in the opera house in Phoenix. The legislature was in
session. Hearing that two of the "Mormon" apostles were there,
some of the members of the legislature waited on us and said they had
arranged to hire the opera house, and they would agree to fill it if we
would condescend to preach. Well, we usually hire our own hall and
condescend to preach to empty benches; so, of course, we condescended,
and were delighted with the opportunity. One of the good sisters
who came down from Mesa was sitting behind a man while I was
preaching, and she heard him say, with emphasis, that I was an earnest
preacher. Pretty soon, with that emphasis again, he said I was a
good preacher, and finally once more with emphasis he said : "That
man believes (with emphasis) every word he is saying." I ask no
greater compliment.

GRATITUDE TO PARENTS WHO WERE TRUE TO THE FAITH

Before I sit down I want to say that I have never heard and
never expect to hear, to the day of my death, my favorite hymn:
"Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear, But with joy wend your
way," but what I think of the death and the burial of my little baby
sister, and the wolves digging up her body on the plains ; but what I
think of the death of my father's first wife, and the bringing of her
body here for burial, from Echo Canyon; but what 1 think of others
that I know of, who laid down their lives; but what I think of that
wonderful journey of Brigham Young and his band of Pioneers, and
those who followed him, and my heart goes out in gratitude beyond
all the power with which God has given me to express it, that my
father and my mother were among those who were true to God, and
who made those sacrifices for the conviction of their hearts, because
of the knowledge that they had that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ,
and that Joseph Smith is his Prophet. I never hear this other hymn
that we have sung here today — "Do what is right''- — but what I de-
sire with all the power of my being to impress upon the Latter-day
Saints the necessity of following the teachings of the last verse of
that hymn,

"Do what is right; be faithful and fearless,
Onward, press onward, the g.oal is in sight ;

Eyes that are wet now, ere long will be tearless,
Blessings await you in doing what's right.

"Do what is right, let the consequence follow,

Battle for freedom in spirit and might,
And with stout hearts look ye forth till tomorrow,

God will protect you, do what is right."

God bless you all. Amen. .

A Glimpse into the Secret Diplomacy
of the Confederate States

[Concluded from Page 10]

By Dr. A. L. Curtis

hamar is Sent to Russia ,

The commission first sent abroad found its time too well
occupied in France, England, and Belgium, to undertake a
mission to Russia. The cooperation of Russia had been sought
to act in a joint recognition of the South by the Great Powers of
Europe. This had not been successful. The chief executive
of the South determined to send Mr. L. Q. C. Lamar, an influ-
ential man, as a special commissioner to the court of St. Peters-
burg. In due time Mr. Lamar reached Russia. An interesting
thing about Mr. Lamar's commission is that it gives us an idea
as to what the Southern States considered its duty to other
nations. It reads:

"When several of the independent states * * * determined to with-
draw from the Union and associate themselves in a new Confederation *
* * It was natural and proper that they should communicate this fact
to the other nations of the earth. The usages of international intercourse
require official communication of all organic changes in the Constitution
of States."

So, to fulfil their duty to Russia, as they had to certain
other nations, they sent an authorized representative to the
court of Russia, having written instructions to guide him to
present an official request to that government for recognition.
In the messages and papers of the South which we have, we
find Mr. Lamar's commission, we f:nd his instructions, and we
know he arrived at St. Petersburg; but, we are left in doubt as
to whether he officially requested of this nation recognition or
not. However, Russia played her part in the great drama of
nations, equally well as one called on by the Southern States,
or as one called on by France, England and their associates.

We assume that Russia was "called upon."

Mann is Sent to Denmark

An attempt to be thorough necessitates the mention that
Mr. Mann was sent to Denmark. The object was to consult
with the authorities on the matter of Africans which were cap-

/

110 IMPROVEMENT ERA

tured at sea by the North from slave-trading ships being trans-
ferred to the Danish West Indies, and to prevent the disposal
of Southern slaves on this pretence, if attempted by the North.
As this was the sole purpose of the mission, and no attempts
were made to officially knock at the door of Denmark, the
matter may be dismissed.

The Nations not Called Upon

The hand of the Lord is seen alike in the Southern States
calling upon certain nations, and in not calling upon other
nations. The commissioner to Russia, Mr. Lamar, urged the
Confederate government to send a commission to Austria and
Prussia, thus, "I am satisfied that much service to our cause
would be done by your sending a commissioner to the govern-
ments of Austria and Prussia. An intelligent gentleman resid-
ing in Berlin has assured me that the government and army are
extremely favorable to the South, and that the success of the
South is not more sincerely desired at any court than that of
Austria." Though urgently requested, it is a remarkable fact
that no commissioner of the Southern States was ever sent to, or,
ever called upon, a nation allied with the Central Powers in
the World's War.

Rost is Sent to Spain

It is stated elsewhere that Pierre A. Rost was sent to Spain.
He and William L. Yancey and A. Dudley Mann were commis-
sioned to represent the South at the court of the Queen of Spain.
Mr. Yancy and Mr. Mann never visited Spain. Mr. Rost arrived
at Madrid as the news of the reverses of the South were being
received. He waited some time in the expectation of learning
the real nature and extent of conditions and especially in the
hope that some encouraging news would be received. It did not
come. Instead, news came that his own plantation had been
overrun by the Northern armies, and his property confiscated,
bringing him financial disaster. He asked an unofficial inter-
view with the Prime Minister of Spain which was granted. At
this interview even his own personal instructions from the
Secretary of State were left with the Prime Minister; but the
attitude of the Spanish government gave him no encouragement
to ask an official interview or present an official request. Mr.
Rost's health began to fail. Under financial reverses, broken
in health, broken in spirit, he left for Paris, where he tendered
his resignation. In this he says, "The state of my health would
not permit me to return to Spain. * * * After we are rec-
ognized in London and Paris it will be time enough to send a
commissioner to Spain, her government being particularly slow

SECRET DIPLOMACY OF CONFEDERATE STATES 111

and intending to be so * * * with regard to us. * * *"
Mr. Slidell was later delegated a commissioner to Spain but he
never visited this government.

Spain was visited but not officially "called upon."

Mexico is Visited

Connected with the attempted overtures of the South to-
ward Mexico are all the elements essential to the deepest drama
— ambition, energy, achievement — all but gained, a crisis, re-
newed effort, pride, pomp, anticipation, trickery, broken faith,
disgust.

John T. Pickett, of Montgomery, was appointed a commis-
sioner to Mexico. Duly commissioned, bearing his letter of in-
structions, full of hope, ambitious, and energetic, he reached the
City of Mexico. Through his tact and cleverness, he won his
way to the heart and confidence of the Mexican Minister of
Foreign Affairs. His purpose and the desire of the Confederacy
seemed an assured fact, when a crisis came — conditions changed.
But let him tell of this. In his letter to the Secretary of State
he said:

"Sir, I have the honor to inform you that1 I have succeeded in establish-
ing friendly relations with Mr. Zamacona, the New Minister of Foreign
Affairs, and but for the unhappy condition of this government (a new revo-
lution being about to burst upon it, the English and French Ministers
having suspended diplomatic relations, etc.) would feel confident by this
time of having accomplished all the material objects of my mission."

Like the fairy story, where the youth reached out his hand
to pick the gloden pear and it miraculously disappeared, so
Picket stood ready to officially call on Mexico with all as-
surances of his being received, when the government of Mex-
ico simply ceased to exist, and he* was left standing in the midst
of chaos and revolution. His mission had failed.

This revolution in Mexico was undoubtedly fomented by
the agents of the Emperor of France, Napoleon III, whose
desire and ambition to found an empire in Mexico has already
been mentioned. This revolution was only one forward step
in the accomplishment of it. With the revolution in progress,
with the French army in the ports, and overrunning the terri-
tory of Mexico, with Maximilian, after signifying his willing-
ness to accept the crown of the new empire, waiting in Paris for
plans to be accomplished to carry him and his cortege to the
shores of Mexico, let us take a glimpse at the diplomatic activity
of the Southern States. The President and Cabinet of the Con-
federacy were fully aware of the design and plans of the Em-
peror Napoleon III to found an Empire in Mexico and seat
Maximilian, Archduke of Austria, on the throne. They; were.

112 IMPROVEMENT ERA

not only aware, but apparently in full accord. Proffers of
alliances, "offensive and defensive, in Mexican affairs," had
been made. The arrival of Maximilian was expectantly and
joyfully awaited. In the meantime, the South was active, as
shown from this document of State:

"Department of State, Richmond, Jan. 7, 1864.
General "William Preston, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister
Plenipotentiary to the Government of Mexico.

Sir: — Your appointment to be Envoy Extraordinary and Minister
Plenipotentiary of the Confederate States near the Emperor of Mexico,
having been confirmed by the Senate; it becomes my duty, under the
direction of the President) to issue these instructions. * * *

(Signed) J. P. Benjamin."

General Preston feeling a just pride in receiving the highest
honor and title of any Confederate diplomat proceeded on his
journey to Mexico. He succeeded in "running the blockade,"
and reached Havana, Cuba. Maximilian was delayed, and did not
sail from France as soon as expected. The Envoy Extraordinary
and Minister Plenipotentiary determined to wait at Havana the
Archduke's arrival, then to enter Mexico amid the pomp and
splendor to be tendered to the Emperor. During this wait condi-
tions took a change. Mr. Slidell reported he had twice re-
quested an interview with Maximilian which had not been
granted. Mr. Mann reported, "I have heard from a well-in-
formed source, much more to my chagrin than astonishment,
that Louis Napoleon had enjoined upon Maximilian to hold no
official relations with our commissioners to Mexico." The
trickery and broken faith of Napoleon had been manifested.
In unexpressed disgust their Envoy Extraordinary was condi-
tionally recalled. Mexico was not officially "called upon."

Two more countries remain to be considered, one of the
small and one of the great among nations.

Charles J. Helm is Sent to Cuba

Strange as it may seem a duly appointed commissioner was
sent to Cuba which was then a Spanish colony. Another thing
somewhat unusual was that an official message was sent by this
commissioner direct from the President of the Confederacy to
the Governor of Cuba. In only one other instance did this hap-
pen. All through the Civil War Cuba was a fast friend to the
South. Munitions of war, supplies of every description, were
sent from Europe direct to Cuba without molestation. In Cu-
ban ports the goods were reloaded on Confederate ships which,
if luck was with them, "ran the blockade," and delivered these
goods in a southern port. Of all countries, Cuba rendered the
South the most valiant sen ice. This in part explains the rea-
son for her being favored by being officially "called upon."

SECRET DIPLOMACY OF CONFEDERATE STATES 113

Bishop Lynch and A. Dudley Mifinn were Sent to Italy

President Davis, of the Southern Confederacy, was so much
impressed with the Pops of Rome's endeavors to bring about
peace, that he determined to send Bishop P. N. Lynch as a
commissioner to the court of the Vatican. This reverend gentle-
man, duly commissioned, duly instructed, proceeded on his way
to Italy, reaching England and afterwards Paris. From there he
left for Rome, but whether he reached Rome or not is difficult to
determine, as ther.e is no diplomatic correspondence to show
that he did. However, A. Dudley Mann, who had been dele-
gated to the court of King Leopold, was appointed a commis-
sioner to His Holiness the Pope, by President Jefferson Davis.
It was entrusted to him to carry to Rome a special document of
state, the President's message to Pope Pius IX.

We can better understand the importance of Mr. Mann's
mission if we pause and consider the political as well as the
ecclesiastical position of the Pope of Rome at this time. The
dominion of Pius IV, known as the States of the Church, in-
cluded the greater part of Italy at his coronation. At the begin-
ning of his reign he gained boundless popularity by his liber-
ality. Later a reactionary policy threw him into disfavor and
the populace rose against him. In 1849 he was driven by a mob
from Rome, and fled to Gaesta, and a Roman Republic was
formed. Napoleon III of France determined to restore the papal
authority, which he did by resort to arms. Louis Napoleon
again, in 1859, assisted the Italians against the Anstrians, and
from 1860 to 1866 the Papal government, though its extent had
been reduced, was sustained by the presence of a French army.
So Mann's mission to Rome was not alone to an ecclesiastical
ruler but to a temporal ruler as well. This commissioner
reached Rome, presented his credentials to the court of the
Vatican and was received by the Pope with no undue delay-
In the correspondence this is described in great detail. Space
will allow us to present but one paragraph regarding it from
Mr. Mann's message to Mr Benjamin, Secretary of State. It
reads :

"Sir: The Cardinal, Secretary of State Antonelli, officially transmitted,
to me yesterday the answer of the Pope to the President. In the very
direction of this communication there is a positive recognition of our
Government. It is addressed to the 'Illustrious and Honorahle Jefferson
Davis, President of the Confederate States of America.' Thus we are
asknowledged by as high an authority as this world contains, to be an inde-
pendent power in the world. I congratudate you, I congratulate the Presi
dent, I congratulate his Cabinet — in short, I congratulate all my true-
hearted countrymen and countrywomen upon this benign event. The hand
of the Lord has been in it, and eternal glory and praise to his holy and
righteous name." .

114 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Comment and Conclusion

The diplomatic papers of the Confederacy, or at least a
greater part of them, as has been intimated, were profoundly
secret and confidential. Some of them were written in code and
sent by trusted messengers. Their contents were known only to
the President and his Cabinet and a selected few. After the war
they were practically forgotten, and yet remembered. They
remained buried as it were, in the archives of the government at
Washington for over forty years. Eight years before the out-
break of the World War, Congress was moved upon and by a
special act of that august body, one of its members was ap-
pointed to drag these documents out from the dust and cobwebs
of a past generation, and publish them for the first time, to the
world. "For God is not unrighteous to forget." Saith the Lord,
"I have not spoken in secret from the beginning."

To the credit of the Southern States, be it said, they chose
wise men for their leaders. The men who occupied the position
of Secretary of State were men of great accomplishment. They
were attorneys of repute and each had served in the Senate of
the United States before the war. They were trained in the us-
ages, and customs, traditions and laws of nations. They under-
stood the "usages and customs of mankind" necessary for the
Confederate states to follow in knocking at the doors of na-
tions. For them to formally or officially "call upon another
nation" it was thus to be accomplished: (1) It must be done
through an agent or commissioner (a) who was duly and of-
ficially commissioned to represent the Confederacy and (b) who
had written instructions from the Department of State for his
guidance. (2) The "call" (request, entreaty, importunity, or de-
mand) was to be made in writing and signed by the Commis-
sioner himself, or, the Commissioner must carry a document of
State signed by the chief executive (a special message of the
President) to the Chief Ruler of the country called upon. (3)
This official communication must be delivered in person by the
Commissioner, into the hands of the proper official, i. e., to the
Chief Ruler himself or to the Minister of Foreign Affairs. This
is the procedure more or less followed at the present day among
all nations.

The commissioners understood this. They seemed to feel
and realize that their part was not properly played if they failed
in one or all of these requirements. As for example Slidell,
though he associated intimately with the members of the court
of Napoleon III, and though he had numerous talks with the
Emperor himself, and they understood each other, made in the
face of all this a formal demand for recognition by the French
government. Of this he writes : "My own decided opinion had

SECRET DIPLOMACY OF CONFEDERATE STATES H5

been in favor of presenting the demands several weeks since; I
had yielded to the better judgment of my colleague at London,
who had consulted several of our leading friends in Parliament
a9 to the expediency of such a step, but I could no longer defer
it (the demand for recognition) with any regard to the interest
of the government or to self respect." These commisioners were
not tramps, vagrants, nor tourists. They left Southern soil
for the avowed purpose to represent their country in foreign
nations. The official requests were, without exception, for the
one and the same thing — recognition. Some may ask, "Why did
they not ask for help?" Recognition was the greatest help they
could obtain. There could be no intervention without first
recognition. With recognition, they could openly buy war-ships,
and munitions of war from any and all countries; they could
have built or bought, armed and manned navies in foreign ports.
Without recognition, they were handicapped, men-of-war had to
be secretly built and munitions secretly bought. Though the
heart of a nation was with them, the hand of that nation was
of necessity against them. Recognition would have been their
greatest asset.

From, a thorough search and unbiased investigation of the
diplomatic correspondence of the Southern States these things
were evident:

First: That representatives of the Southern States were
never sent to, or never called upon, Prussia or any kingdom
which later became part of the German Empire, Austria-Hun-
gary, or any other country or nation which formed or joined
the Central Powers in the World's War. Even Maximilian,
Archduke of Austria, refused an interview at Paris.

Second: That the following nations were visited, but not
formally or officially "called upon": 1 Spain; 2 Mexico; 3
Denmark.

Third. That these nations and these nations only were
regularly and formally "called upon", according to the cus-
toms of nations: 1 Great Britain; 2 France; 3 Belgium; 4
Russia; 5 Cuba; and 6 Italy.

The World's War is closed; it is past history. Some facts
stand out like mountain peaks on its horizon. It is today the
concensus of opin'on of the world that the Central Powers
began the war.

It is remarkable, but a well known fact, that all the nations
visited but not formally "called unon" by the Southern agents,
remained neutral in the World War.

It is astonishing, but an undeniable fact, that every nation
formally "called upon", by the Confederate States: Great Brit-
ain, France, Belgium, Russ'a, Italy, and Cuba, the great and

116 IMPROVEMENT ERA

mighty of the "jot and tittle" of nations — individually and col-
lectively "called upon" other nations for aid, that all joined
hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, musket to musket, cannon
to cannon, and fought, might and main, to "defend themselves
against other nations." It cannot be disputed that during this
great and terrible conflict war was "poured out upon all
nations", whether neutral or at war.

"Tell us what shall be, or come to pass, that we may know
ye are gods," the prophet of old enjoined the idols. The Lord,
through Joseph Smith, said, "The Southern States will call on
other nations." To know the future lies only with the Lord.
Man may predict crises or great events when practically face to
face with them, but with no degree of certainty. In the late
world's war, the world's greatest statesmen,£en erish and uncertain,
labored with Italy, appealed to her honor, worked on her fears,
and through flattery and bribes tried to sway her to their side.
The whole world anxiously, wonderingly and unquestioningly
looked on for weeks and weeks for her first uncertain step. Yet,
although she, at the beginning of the war, was bound by treaties
and by the strongest ties of mankind otherwise, her place was
pointed out, her rank and file designated and her lot cast over
eighty years before by Him who rules all nations. What a
marvelous array of facts, what evidence that God lives and that
the nations of the earth are as but clay in the hands of the
potter to him who knows the end from the beginning. Man,
with all his shrewdness, could not have predicted the rebellion of
South Carolina twenty-nine years before it happened. Man could
not have foretold that the rebellion of South Carolina would be
the beginning of a civil war, and a series of wars. He could not
have foretold at this time that the Southern States would be
divided against the Northern States in bloody combat. No liv-
ing person could have foretold that the Southern States would
call upon Great Britain and other nations. No one could have
foretold that these very nations thus called upon would ally
themselves and call upon other nations to join them in a united
defense against common foes. No one could have predicted
eight-two years before hand the World's War and have pointed
out the nations which would play the important roles on the
defensive side. To believe such would be believing things far
more absurd than that God lives and that he reveals his secrets
to his servants the prophets.

"They have Mose^ and the prophets," said the Savior, "if
they will not believe them, neither would they believe, though
one should rise from the dead." "Trust the Lord with all thine
heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy
ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." "Hearken

SECRET DIPLOMACY OF CONFEDERATE STATES li7

unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called, I am he, I am the first,
I also am the last. Mine hand also hath laid the foundation
of the earth, and my right hand hath spanned the heavens, when
I call unto them they stand up together. All ye, assemble
yourselves and hear * * * I, even I, have spoken."

Endurato

The phantoms of my childhood's hope,

The day dreams of my trust.
The idols of my manhood's prime,

All, all, have turned to dust.
The lesser lights, that once burned bright,

Have flickered and gone out;
The beams have vanished from my sight,

The ashes lie about.

But Ah, the Star that gleamed on high,

O'er Bethlehem's quiet plain,
Still sends its rays adown the years,

Alight, while time remains.
And, oh, the light about The Head

Still o'er my way appears!
The halo of that God-lent crown

Grows brighter with the years.

Tridell, Utah. Mrs. Alice Morrill

The Feeling of Autumn

(With apologies to O. S. Johnson)

'Tis autumn here, 'Tis Autumn here,

Where the fertile valley stretches; Where the mountain air is cooling;

Where the checkered fields Where the master artist

Are ripe with Nature's season's toil. Is painting, in shades of golden-brown.

Do you love Autumn? Do you love Autumn?

'Tis autumn here, 'Tis Autumn here,

Where the days are gently passing; Where the soul of man respondeth;

Where the winds of sadness Where the harvest moon tells,

Lend enchantment to Summer's spell. In mystery, the omnipotence of God.

Do you love Autumn? Do you love Autumn?

Richfield, Utah Wallace C. Thompson

** ^s

The Gift of Peace

By Venice Famsworth Anderson

Father Time had once more drawn his inscrutable circle
around the year. It was Christmas season 1847, in the snowy
heart of the Salt Lake Valley. The cluster of adobe and log
cabins within the "Old Fort" huddled affectionately together
and clung tenaciously to the protecting arms of the kindly wall.
The stockade gate at the east was closed except for a space large
enough to allow entrance to a man and a horse. Many of the
cabin loop-holes which penetrated the outer wall and gave access
to the open country were fast barricaded, for it was the day
before Christmas and the small body of settlers dreaded a sur-
prise attack from an unfriendly band of Utes.

All had been harmony between the "Mormons" and the red
men until a week before Christmas when a prize beef belonging
to the camp had been driven off and slaughtered by two young
braves. When complained to, the chief sulked ominously and
the Indians became openly hostile. The almost defenseless
settlers had just reason to fear a bloody conflict. But it was the
first Christmas in their new homes, and the brave little group
had decided not to let a chance attack ruin the much beloved
holiday.

Accordingly, the men who were best able to leave had taken
two sturdy work horses and gone, well armed, to the neighbor-
ing canyon to procure evergreens for decorating the cabins and
a great Christmas tree to occupy the platform in the middle of
the "Old Fort." Here at high noon on Christmas day the set-
tlers planned to congregate for singing, thanskgiving, and such
feasting as their scanty larders would permit. ;

In the Taylor cabin, which boasted of the largest stove in
camp and a roof which leaked only during a very bad storm, the
best cooks in the community had gathered to prepare the es-
sential parts of the feast. An accepted leader among these
women was pretty, young Margaret Yates. Margaret, however,
was far more than a cook. In her deep, hazel eyes there was a
look of pathos, humor, enthusiasm, and devotion. Her mouth
was at once firm and enticingly sweet. Her hands were marked
with hard work but her feet were as trim and shapely as a
duchess's. Though she wore a plain worsted frock and an apron
which had once been a flour sack, she was every inch the lady
born. A true pioneer woman.

120 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Until late in the afternoon she, with her happy companions,
labored over cakes made with half portions of shortening and
sugar, and sandwiches with meat but little or no butter. When
all was done, Margaret hurried out to find her baby son, whom
she had left playing with the other children.

Her first glance at the sun told her that it was growing late
and she wished she had put warmer wraps on her boy before
leaving him. As she passed the open place where the youngsters
had been playing "Fox and Geese," she found it deserted. With
growing anxiety she hurried on to her own cabin. At the door
she paused, sick at heart; the fire was out; the cabin was cold
and strangely empty. A dread premonition seized her. Her
boy had not returned to his home as she had bidden him. He
had wandered off. Vainly she tried to assure herself that her
baby had gone into one of the neighbor's cabins. She returned
to the door and stood there for an instant, every muscle poised,
straining eyes and ears for the slightest sign of life. Her eager
glance swept to the very depths of the distant canyons.

A wild terror suddenly rushed over her. The sun was
traveling rapidly toward the snow-crested ridge in the west
and a bleak wind blew steadily from Emigration canyon. With-
in an hour the valley would be wrapped in darkness save for the
cold light from the stars and the moon. Thd valley was already
covered with a crusty blanket of snow and the night was grow-
ing bitter cold. But far worse than the darkness and cold was
the dread of the skulking gray wolves, which infested the valley,
and the equally crafty and far more cruel Indians.

There was not a moment to lose. Margaret grasped the elk
horn which hung within reach and blew a shrill blast. Almost
instantly the cabin doors within the "Old Fort" burst open and
men, women, and children rushed forward in response to the
call.

At the arrival of each new comer, Margaret asked franticallv
for her baby. No one knew anything of the sturdy little lad,
the camp's favorite. He was last seen hours earlier playing with
the children in the snow. By some dreadful mischance no child
had felt responsible for independent little John Yates, nor had
seen him wander away.

The most experienced men could not hide their concern.
Many of the wom3n wept openly. Some one suggested a minute
search of the "Old Fort" and the immediate environs. With
true pioneer skill the work was organized and begun.

Marsraret, however, waited only long enough to assure her-
self that her babv was not in caniD. Then from its resting place
above her door she took a heavy-barrelled gun and with steady

THE GIFT OF PEACE 121

hands, she turned it away from her friends and fired three
successive shots. These whizzed through the hollow distance
and reverberated from every mountain side.

Miles away in the icy depths of the canyon, John Yates
paused, his ax held high in the air. At his feet lay a stalwart
pine just felled. In his face flowed the rich blood of health
and vigor. In his dark eyes was the fire of pioneer manhood.
His broad shoulders and long, slender muscles showed him every
inch the athlete, while his finely set head and his high brow
bespoke him at once a scholar and a leader among men. In-
stantly his companions near him stopped work and looked at
him with anxious eyes.

"That's your call, Yates."

Noislessly John's ax sank into the snow.

Breathlesly the men listened. In a moment through the
white stillness, there came cracking again three distinct shots.

"I'm off. You boys must bring the trees down," announced
Yates briefly as he started on the run for camp.

The men stood watching him admiringly as he swung off
over the foot hills not deigning to take either horse or the longer,
beaten trail. In his every movement was the evidence of in-
finite reserve force. The pioneers felt this and loved and
prized him for it.

Margaret, dry-eyed, passionately calm, met her husband far
outside the fort wall.

"What is the matter, little mother?" asked Yates, assuming
a cheerfulness which he did not feel. Tie knew his wife too
well to expect a trifling mishap.

Her first words weer a suppressed, "Thank God, you are
here, I knew you would come at once, and it's none too soon."

John threw his strong arm round her slender waist and
somehow the pressure gave her strength to tell him, though her
words came in gasps:

"Our son — my baby — he's gone — he must have followed
you men toward the mountains. No one knows anything about
him. What on earth shall we do?"

The red blood suddenly deserted John's cheek, but in the
same instant his mind and body started action. He half carried
Margaret back to the cabin, placed her in a chair and walked
aimlessly, as it at first appeared, around the room. He would
have given half his life at that moment to have been in an east-
ern store. But hd wasted no time in idle wishing. He snatched
the gaudiest thing in the cabin, a silk patchwork scarf, from a
chair and then opened the provision cupboard. Margaret
started in amazement fearing for the moment that her husband
had lost his reason. Then light dawned.

122 IMPROVEMENT ERA

"You're going to the Indians?" she queried almost afraid
to believe.

At a nod of acquiescence from her husband she was at his
side.

"Here, take this and tell them I have other good things,"
she said, as she thrust a pound can of sugar, more than half her
winter's supply, into his hand.

And then a brighter light, probably born of the blessed
Christmas season, came to her. With eager feet she hurried
across the floor and threw up the lid of her packing trunk.
From the till she took a strange little toy, a home made wooden
horse arrayed in a most gorgeous bridle of feathers and wool
cleverly woven together. It was to have been her son's only
real Christmas present, but she brushed back the hot tears and
came smiling to her husband.

"Take this to the chief. He has a grandson. I think he
will help find our boy."

John pressed his wife admiringly to his heart. Tenderly
he wrapped the little horse in the bright scarf. At the door he
paused to say cheerfully, "Don't worry, little mother, the In-
dians are in camp not more than a mile away and the chief
knows I am his friend. As for our boy, he is as sturdy as granite
and he hasn't been out too long — yet."

The tale of what John was doing ran like wildfire through
the camp. Though the men feared for his safety, they knew,
too, that it Was foolish to endanger the lives of more men than
necessary and furthermore that the Indians would be sure to
intercept the advance of a body of men as an attack, and would
act accordingly.

Yates traversed the distance between the "Old Fort" and
the Indian encampment in a miraculously short time. As he
neared the cluster of crude wikiups which had been thrown up
by the savages he maintained a sharp lookout for any danger
signals. He carried in a deep pocket in his sheepskin coat a
trusty /pistol, but as he aproached the camp he raised his right
arm above his head in friendly greeting.

Unmolested except by glowering looks he reached the wik-
iup of the chief. He found the savage sitting moodily before
his pungent brush fire. The old chief neither moved nor
showed any signs of interest or surprise at John's sudden appear-
ance. To the white man's greeting the Indian grunted sullenly.
Yates without delay brought into play all his knowledge of
Indian psychology. He began smoothing unconcernedly the
end of the scarf which hung below his coat. Then he pulled
the cloth out little by little until its whole gaudy length Was
visible. This he swung back and forth showing up the bright

THE GIFT OF PEACE 123

colors in the silk. The vision was too much for the old chief.
He could not hide his interest though he remained silent and
motionless.

At this point the anxious father told his story. During the
recital the chief eyed the silk scarf minutely but at the end of
the eager petition for help he sank again into moody indiffer-
ence. Yates bit down his impatience as best he could and began
to whittle a flat stick into ladle shape. With this he ostenta-
tiously tasted the sugar and offered some to the chief. The
savage smacked his lips approvingly over the much craved sweet
stuff but instead of moving merely grunted something about
"heap cold" and deliberately threw another branch on his
smoky fire.

Then the desperate father prepared to use his last resource.
With tactful skill he enquired about the welfare of the tribe and
asked tenderly concerning the grandson, the beloved "little
chief." In spite of himself the old Indian's heart warmed. With
a glow of pride in his crafty old eyes, he spoke in his own savage
way of the fine points of the baby brave. When the find grand-
parent was at the height of his enthusiasm, Yates drew forth
the toy horse with the simple plea, "It's for your grandson,
chief. Won't you come and help find my boy?"

The time-old appeal was too strong for the Indian. With
a snort of acquiescence, he took the horse, examined it admir-
ingly and finally hid it carefully away. Then he swallowed a
great gulp of the sugar and, lest his squaw might find it, buried
the can. With primitive vanity he drew the scarf around his
neck so that the whole world, especially his jealous braves,
might see. Without more ado the chief threw his blanket
across his shoulder in typical fashion and set forth.

Once in the open he sniffed at the wind and shook his head
disapprovingly. Already a few icy flakes were fluttering in the
air and the sun was a huge crimson ball in a dull gray sky. With
steady strides he skirted the fort wall and reached the stock-
ade gate. Here the chief paused long while John waited, con-
trolling his impatience as best he could. After careful exam-
ination the Indian rose leisurely from the hard beaten patch of
snow. This was so gruelled with horses' hoofs that John had
looked in vain for any clue to be found there. To his surprise
the chief calmly informed him that the papoose was with the
horses. To the white man's amazed look the Indian pointed
disgustedly to a tiny dent inside a horse-shoe mark. There, sure-
enough was a baby heel print not quite obliterated. The chief
seemed satisfied now that he was not iri a vain quest and set out
rapidly to follow the horses' trail.

Now and again he paused to make sure that the little feet

124 IMPROVEMENT ERA

had still followed. As they neared the canyon the snow became
deeper and crustier. The father began to wonder if any child,
even his son, could tra\ el so far on foot over such country. He
voiced his doubts to the Indian. For answer the chief pointed
to another tiny mark, this time a toe print, plainly visible be-
yond the edge of a deep horse-shoe track.

"Papoose good legs," remarked the chief and strode on in
silence.

The minutes seemed interminable to the father. With
every step a ghastly fear was becoming stronger; could his boy
if found have survived the bitter cold of the long hours, or
worse, the possible attack of a wild beast?

Finally they came to a steep ascent. Just beyond was a
log bridge, a crude span over the icy, deep-running creek. Here
a bleak certainty seized John, no four-year old child could cross
that bridge in safety. It was a difficult task for a man. In the
face of this fact with irritating serenity the Indian stopped, ad-
justed his blanket and commented sagely, "Papoose heap wise."

John looked at the chief and waited in tense silence. The
Indian was no longer following the horses' trail. His eyes were
roving over the surrounding country with a shrewd penetrating
glance. The horses and men had crowded together for some
distance before crossing the bridge so that the path was a mere
confusion of marked and unmarked snow. On either side of the
road with impenetrable underbrush ending in jagged peaks or in
the ice-checked creek. The child's trail had simply vanished.
The sun was only a gorgeous rim just visible above the high
peak. In the east, the moon had risen cold and clear. The wind
had died but for occasional shrieks, and in the interim all nature
was solemn and still.

For a few moments the Indian seemed puzzled, then he
turned leisurely and walked back several yards. Suddenly be
stopped with an exclamation of satisfaction. He had come to
a low break in the bushes. He turned and with a look of tri-
umph beckoned to John. In an instant the father was at the
spot. The bushes here swerved back unexpectedly and between
their ranks just visible in the gray light was a distinct trail of
tiny foot marks.

"Papoose heap tired," commented the Indian and this time
not even expecting the dense white m^an to understand, he
pointed to the toe marks. Each one was heavier than the last.
The little feet could hardly lift themselves.

A little farther on in the path there was a deep blurr — the
tiny traveler had stumbled and fallen. A few rods ahead with a
treacherous drift where the lad had wisely turned aside and
trudged wearily on. There was a continuous line now between

THE GIFT OF PEACE 125

the foot marks. The tired little legs could no longer raise the
heavy shoes above the snow.

With a wild yell the Indian suddenly darted forward, his
hunting knife raised above his head. At almost the same in-
stant John's pistol shot rang in the air. A snarling wild cat had
made his last hunt. Not three yards beyond the writhing body
at the side of the path beneath a gnarled birch tree, lay a tiny
form motionless in the blue snow. One little arm had clutched
at a willow which had broken in the fall, but still remained in
the baby hand. The thin home spun coat was spread uselessly
on the snow. The weary feet had stopped only when they could
go no farther. On the firm, pale cheeks were tear stains and
the baby mouth drooped mournfully.

Before the chief could touch him, John reached the spot
and gathered his boy to his breast. For a moment the chief left
him alone and then with less ceremony than wisdom, took the
boy and placed him once more in the cold snow. With Indian
skill he applied first aid. Roughly he rubbed the lad from head
to foot applying soft snow to the cheeks, ears and hands. With
no concealed disgust, he tore off the little shoes, civilization's
foolish toys, and rubbed snow on the blue feet.

Slowly the blod began to flow through the chilled veins.
The tiny legs twitched spasmodically under the vigorous rubbing
and, after what seemed on eternity to the father, two great
brown eyes opened and looked mistily out into the bleak, world.

"Heap fine papoose," said the chief as he rose solemnly and
wrapped himself once more in his great blanket.

Not a word further passed between the two men, but the
hand shake which John forced upon the chief spoke a world of
gratitude and bound the young pioneer and the old Indian in an
undying friendship.

It was almost dark now and the canyon was an unpleasant
place in which to linger. The moon was veiling herself in swirl-
ing billows of fine snow and in the distance two gray wolves
howled as if some grievous wrong had been done them. John
wrapped his precious burden securely in his great sheep-skin
coat and falling in, almost reverently, behind the old chief,
started for camp.

The home journey was joyously short. As they neared
camp they met numerous groups of men, self organized search
parties, each with its lantern and dog. At th«se the chief scoffed
openly but his old heart warmed in spite of himself at the white
men's tumultuous praise when they learned what he had done.
By the time they reached the stockade the journey had become
a march of triumph headed by the majestic chief and the pubi-
lant father holding in his arms the sleeping babe.

126 IMPROVEMENT ERA

At the Yates cabin the crowd fell back out of respect to the
reserved, brave little mother. She stood tremulous in the
open door way, her lips parted over set teeth, her soft, hazel
eyes two surging stars of love and fear. As if in spite of her-
self her yearning arms stretched out and she whispered from the
depths of her heart, "My baby — is he — is he?"

"He is asleep, little mother, as well as he ever was."

To prove his words, John sprang to the door step, placed
the boy next his mother's heart and then folded them both pas-
sionately in his two strong arms.

Outside in the swirling snow the settlers took eager care
of the old chief. He was escorted royally to a cabin where he
was fed sumptuously. Then he was led over to the platform.
Here a glad work was in progress. There was not a good wife
in the settlement who did not donate joyously from her scanty
supply to the heavy sled which was being packed for the In-
dians. There was everything in the load from "poor man's"
cake to juicy pine hens roasted to a nicety. One true-blue
mother insisted upon sending precious pop corn balls to every
youngster in the Indian band. And Margaret Yates had sus-
tained her nerves during the dreadful hours of waiting by bak-
ing ginger-bread men, large and small, in as plentiful numbers
as her larder permitted. These were added as a final touch to
the creaking sled.

Several curious Indians found near the stockade gates were
drafted to draw the load to the tribe. Amid a chorus of cheers
and good will the mystified red men started for their wikiups,
while with sighs of intense relief the pioneers returned, unfear-
ing for the first time in days, to their cabins to enjoy the gift of
peace which the little child had unwittingly brought them.

In the meantime, little John Yates, the innocent cause of
this rejoicing, was endeavoring manfully to finish eating his
bowl of broth and bread. His heavy brown eyes closed sleepily
over the last bite. Tenderly his mother held him while he
lisped his baby prayer of thanks, and then she wrapped him
snugly in the warm blankets of his trundle bed. Arm in arm
the father and mother stood watching their boy until his heavy
lashes lay peacefully on his rosy cheeks and his breath came in
long, easy swells.

One by one the tallow dips flickered out in the village of
adobe and logs. The Indians had long since gone to rest. Great
Salt Lake Valley was left unmolested to the fluttering white
flakes and the bright angels of peace and good will. But a
tense expectancy pervaded the gentle peace of the night, and
l*--n* before daylight the camp had awakened to the meager
Christmas joys of that brave little camp. Rippling mirth

THE GIFT OF PEACE 127

poured from the frosty windows and climbed with the circling
smoke up the chimneys. From morn until night that day there
was peace and joy and thanksgiving. And nowhere in the
valley was there more happiness than in the cheery Yates cabin,
unless it was in a far off wikiup where a little Indian boy sat all
day and played with a wooden horse, while a moody old chief
watched and smiled inwardly.

Gems of Thought

"As a man thinketh in his hearty so is he." — Proverbs.

"All things are possible to him who believes." — Selected

"Never speak a word that you would not wish to come true."

"Man is materialized thought; he is what he thinks."— Franz Hartman.

"Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." —
Paul.

"Do not think a thought that you do not wish manifest in your life." —
Author Unknown.

"Never imagine a condition or circumstance that you would not like
to see near you."— Selected.

"Every right action and true thought sets the seal of its beauty on the
person and the face." — Ruskin..

"Day dreams aren't useless after all, provided you back them up with
day hustle." — Jerome P. Flieshman.

"Practically all things are possible to a man who can learn how and
what to think." — Dr. Wm. A. Keever.

"Silence and reserve suggest latent power * * * what some men
think has more effect than what others say." — Chesterfield.

"Thoughts are not only things, they are living things which grow,
multiply, and bring forth after their own kind." — Agnes Mae Glasgow.

"Those who make room for impressions will receive them. Man's soul
may be perfected by the power of the will." — Paracelsus.

"As nothing reveals character like the company we like and keep, so
nothing foretells futurity like the thoughts over which we brood." — Newell
Dwight Hillis.

"Act is the blossom of thought; joy and suffering are its fruits; thus
does a man garner in the sweet and bitter fruitage of his own husbandry."
— James Allen.

"Truly thought must image forth the thing of the condition desired be-
fore it can manifest itself. This is a truth known to all metaphysicians.—
Stephen Adams.

"Crowd your mind with thoughts that are rich and high and wonderful.
This is the simplest way to build strength, quality, and greatness, into your
mind." — Christian D. Larson.

Jearts andfjolfyhocks

c/7 Story of Love, Struggle
and Society

JluthMoenchBeJt

Chapter III

"There ne'er was a gallant like Young Lochinvar!" Edna
laughed happily as she cuddled up to John in the little car he
had hired to escape the mob. It was thrilling to be spirited
away in so romantic a fashion. It was the pinnacle of a maid's
ambition to be wed' to one who could so cleverly make his es-
cape from the showers of rice and old shoes, that Phil, with all
his wealth, had been forced t o take. A woman Ion es a big man,
a strong man, a masterly man. Edna knew that John was all
these as she felt the joy of adventure with her hero.

"Where are you taking me to, Young Lochinvar?" she
demanded, glorying in the fact that she was almost lost to
view beside his broad shoulders.

"I'm going to take you to a spot where no best man or other
admiring swain can have another glimpse of you for two weeks."
Even a Ford sedan runabout can be steered with one hand. John
used the other arm to draw Edna to him.

"I'm starved for you. I'm almost jealous. The way some
of those fellows were adoring you was more than I could en-
dure."

"They weren't looking at me at all," Edna maintained.
"Every woman and girl in the crowd was admiring you and en-
vying me."

"What about Phil and Judith?"

"Didn't they look splendid? It was certainly a wedding to
remember."

"It was, little woman, and I'm glad you had it. I'm glad
you had the center of the stage with your girlhood friend. I'm
glad of the bridal finery, the veil, the bridesmaids, the flower
girls and all th,e beautiful setting for two lonely flowers."

"Why are you saying it sadly?"

"I remember my baby sister trailing a table cloth about the
house. It was wound about her head like a turban and swept
after her for several yards. She was getting the sensation of
being a bride. So I'm glad you have had it all."

"\ou are making me anxious," Edna pouted prettily,
"That's the way father always led up to something disagreeable."

"Oh, darling, I hope it won't be disagreeable," John wavered

HEARTS AND HOLLYHOCKS 129

and incidentally nearly ran the car into a tree. "But you are
right. I am leading up to something with clumsy masculine
tact. I was trying to tell you that I was glad you had realized
your dream, and hoping you would enjoy mine for we are al-
most at our destination."

John glanced covertly at Edna's face. Was it disappoint-
ment or dismay or only suspended judgment he read there?

"Then we are not going on any train?" Edna asked nerv-
ously. They were drawing near the outskirts of town, a region
Edna scarcely knew. "Where are you taking me?"

"To a little hut among the hollyhocks," John breathed as
he stopped the car before a small adobe cottage almost hidden
by hollyhocks and climbing roses.

It was an alluring spot, but Edna bit her lip in vexation.
The shock was too great. So this was where they were to spend
their honeymoon. When Judith told of the beauties of Florida,
she would have to remain silent or — really, it was too stupid oi
John. "Just for tonight," Edna demurred. "Then off on a
journey tomorrow?"

"Only in fancy, dear," John pleaded. "Don't you love me
enough to be happy with me here?"

"I could be happy with you anywhere," Edna recovered
herself. "Only this was so unexpected."

"Now, I'm just going to take you to the door, dear," John
kissed her gratefully. "Then I'll leave you to rove about and
dream while I take the little car back. It was only borrowed,
you know. Then I'll walk back, thinking every step of the way
that my dream has come true. My dream that a lovely little
woman loves me and is waiting for me in a 'hut half hidden
among roses, herself the fairest rose of all."

"John I'd love you better than any other man on earth if
this were alii the worldly wealth we should, ever possess. If you
were poor or — or — why, I'd be prouder of you en en if I had to
go through poverty of the very poorest kind. I'd even share dis-
grace with you rather than be the wife of the richest, most hon-
ored man on earth."

John drew her to him tenderly. "I don't imagine I'll ask you
to share very dire poverty, little woman, certainly not disgrace.
I'm not contemplating any desperately criminal acts. But it's
going to be rather hard to play up to Phil and Judith. He'll
have a car. We'll walk."

"Splendid exercise," Edna laughed. "Just so we walk to-
gether."

"That's what I was trying to get at the other night," John
agreed, and that's the thought I'll leave you with. And I'll be
back as quickly as possible."

130 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Edna stood watching his car out of sight while a thousand
memories were assailing her.

"What is it?" she finally asked herself. "Why it is this old-
fashioned garden! It is just like grandma's. There are the very
hurdock leaves I used to fashion into hats. And here are the
hollyhocks to trim them with. And there are larkspur and mari-
golds and candytuft."

Fully an hour later John came upon her unexpectedly.
She was surrounded by the works of her hands: the most be-
witching doll parasols, exquisit creations of Paris hats, ballet
dancers, adorable elderly ladies and a perfect colony of dolls,
all fashioned from satiny hollyhocks, burdock leaves and old
fashioned flowers.

"Why, this is paradise," Edna exclaimed, dropping her
fascinating treasures to run to John. "This is grandma's gar-
den all over again. I used to think it was heaven and fairyland
all rolled into one. And I'm starving to death and just found
it out."

"So am I. Let's see what we can find."

They opened the back door and there as cozy as could be
was the kitchen table set out with an old fashioned supper,
bowls of creamy milk, a plate of brown bread, sliced so daintily,
honey in the comb. It was all so homey and inviting, the spot-
less kitchen, the snowy cloth, the informal meal. Th^ey were at
home at once.

"How could paradise be so close to town," Edna laughed
after she had eaten her capacity of brown bread and milk, and,
armed with a plate of cookies and a plate of apples, was making
for the next room.

"I know there is another room and a fire-place where we
can munch cookies and apples before the blaze. But who owns
it all and how did you come to find it?"

"You are right," John exclaimed opening the door before
he answered all the questions. "Here is the fire-place and the
fire all laid." He struck a blaze and placing the apples and
cookies on a small table, evidently for the very purpose, he
brought up the big chair and drew Edna into it while he
perched on the arm. "It belongs to a beautiful woman, whose
soul time has not tarnished. She goes up town to work but lives
here with her flowers and her memories; and a more serene
countenance, a heart more brimming with good-will I have never
encountered. I have admired the place so often she invited us
to spend our honeymoon here while she was away on a visit."

"Two could sit comfortably in this great chair," Edna
invited, making room beside herself. "I want to dream on your
shoulder before this grate fire. A person could live a thousand

HEARTS AND HOLLYHOCKS 131

years in a quiet nook like this. It is so much like grandma's
home. It seems so strange now as I look back on it. There were
always aunts and uncles and grandchildren visiting her, several
families at one time. I never remember less than three families
at any time. And yet I never heard a quarrel, a cross word,
a sarcastic criticism. I never thought of it till now. And I never
heard an unpleasant word between grandpa and grandma in
my life. I don't remember seeing a frown or ugly glance. No
one was ever in a hurry or worried. I can see the table set and
the children, aunts, uncles and grandpa and grandma around it.
That table reached from one end of the long room, which was
kitchen and dinning room, clear to the other. I wonder why we
were so quiet and well-behaved! Was it grandpa's sweet in-
fluence? I know it was not because we were afraid of him or
grandma. Then the evenings after supper. We played so
quietly, while grandpa read his paper and grandma sat knitting.
I remember hearing the old clock tick. We all listened for the
hour of nine. That was the signal for grandpa to fold his paper
and lay it on the table, take off his glasses, and turn his chair
towards the center of the room. Each one found a chair and
turned it in a circle or knelt with someone while grandpa
prayed. He was a lengthy petitioner, when it came to prayers.
And many a time we just had to snicker oner some absurd
thought that popped into our heads while the prayer lasted
And oh, how our kness ached before he got through. Then
everyone went to bed. But why was everything so quiet and
peaceful there? We children were noisy enough at home. With
all these families under one roof, why was there no discord,
no quarreling or fault-finding?"

"Maybe it was the atmosphere of the place," John ven-
tured under the spell of Edna's words, and wondering himself
at her narrative. "Maybe you explained it all when you said
no one was ever in a hurry, no> one ever worried."

"Or, if they did thev left their worries at the gate," Edna
smiled. "I know we aty had the greatest reverence for grandpa,
with his snowy beard, his kindly voice. He said so little. We
children always knew when he was concerned about anything.
He put his hands behind him and walked way up to the back
of the lot where he could be alone to think. And no one ever
disturbed him. When he returned, we could see bv his clear
brows that he had solved his problem or subdued his sorrow,
or calmed his anger. He was the sam? serene soul that said so
little but was always kind and loving."

"That is what I should like to be, young or old," John ex-
claimed. "And you have described the kind of home I have al-
ways wished for, a place of peace."

132 IMPROVEMENT ERA

"At home, we were hurrying to go somewhere, or worrying
about expenses, or hoping for something new, and straining to
pay for it. Furniture, clothes, dishes, carpets or something else,
was always in demand and always crying out to be paid for."

"It is a terrible strain to be forever standing on tiptoe
straining to reach a mark just beyond our grasp," John agreed,
"and that is what makes our modern lives so trying on our soul
strength. 'We hio\ e traveled far from leisurely; lane','' he
quoted.

"And that reminds me," Edna cried, "is Tennyson in the
bookcase? I thought of something this morning that I wanted
to look over again."

"I know what it is," John exclaimed with almost uncanny
insight. "I thought of the same thing when I saw you in the
iiltar room. It is what the prince says about his mother."

"Yes in 'The Princess,' how could you have known?"

"Suggestion. When hearts are in tune, they receive thought
messages just as easily as spoken messages. When mother was
living, I never thought of a song, when we were in a room to-
gether that she didn't begin singing it. And if she thought of
one I was whistling it right away."

"I hope we can always be in tune with each other, like
that," Edna sighed.

"And both together in tune with God," John added, kissing
her tenderly. "Here is the message you wished. I memorized it
years ago, after mother died:

"Not learned, save in gracious household ways,

No angeL but a dearer being, all dipt

In angel instincts, breathing paradise,

Interpreter between the gods and men.
* * *

"Happy he with such a mother! faith in womankind
Beat with his blood, and trust in all things high
Comes easy to him, and though he trip and fall
He shall not blind his soul with clay."

And so the evening passed and th,e other evenings, too.
They found an old guitar. John knew a few chords, so they
sang old songs together, or read, or dreamed by the fire-place,
or walked in the moonlight.

Fishing in the river that flowed by one side of the lot, work
in the little garden, housework and visiting with each other, took
up their days. And soon the two weeks were over.

"It has been so perfect, I dread the change," Edna sighed
as they sat by the fire for the last evening.

"It is one dream that came true," John added.

HEARTS AND HOLLYHOCKS 133

Yet neither realized that the memory of those beautiful
hours together, would bless and torture them in the years that
were to come.

Neither realized that unseen forces were even then
upon their threshold, forces that would inevitably change the
set of their sails.

"Didn't you say that Judith and Phil were to come in and
sp,3nd this last evening with us?" Edna asked.

"Yes, I told Phil, where we were to be. They were to drop
in on us on their way from the train before anyone expected
them homie."

"That sounds like them, now," Edna exclaimed as a car was
heard to stop at the gate.

Chapter IV

"It's our last evening in this dear, little home. I wish we
might stay here always," Edna sighed.

John leaned over and clasped her in his arms. "It's worse
than that, dearest, it's our last minute. Judith is at the door right
now."

There was an impetuous ring at the old fashioned bell, then
Judith tried the knob. She was in the room in a minute in a
blaze of wrath. Phil followed right after, anxious to explain
and make up. But Judith sprang away from him.

"Why, Judith," Edna cried in dismay, clasping Judith's
storm-shaken body in her arms. "Whatever has happened?"

"It's Phil! and I just hate him! I never will make up
with him!" Judith sobbed passionately.

"She's just tired," Phil apologized. "We've had a deuce
of a time. There was a wreck just ahead of us And there we
were side-tracked without a diner for about twenty-four hours.
Judy and I finally got out and walked into a miserable, little,
one-house town. But we hired a man to bring out his Tin
Lizzie and get us to a real town. There we sat in a cold sta-
tion, half-starved for hours — "

"Oh, for pity's sake, don't make me live it all over again!"
Judith exclaimed. "It was bad enough to go over it once."

Edna took command of the situation at once. "You sit
right here in this easy) chair, Judie. Phil, stir up the fire. And
John, you can take her hat and gloves and then come and help
me get something warm for her. She's just tired and hungry
and sleepy and everything else that's miserable."

The men did as th,ey were bidden and in a few minutes
John wheeled the little table, on which he and Edna had enjoyed
so many cozy, fireside meals, close to the fire-place. "Oh, this

134 IMPROVEMENT ERA

tastes so good," Judith .exclaimed ravenously. "I'm nearly
starved to death. Wherever did you find this cozy nest? I
didn't know you could cook, Edna."

"I can't," Edna laughed. "Any dining-car chef could make
my simple attemps look silly, indeed."

"Don't say dining-car chef," Phil begged. "The things they
served us in the name of food and the prices we paid and the
tips we gave!"

" 'When I was at home I was in a better place'," John
quoted in imitation of Touchstone. " 'But travelers must be con-
tent'."

"Never again for me," Judith groaned.

"You'll forget all about it by morning," John predicted,
"and be telling everyone that will listen how wonderful Florida
is. Why, a month from now you'd undertake a trip to the moon,
if there was a chance, and Edna would be ready to go with
you."

"Florida is lovely," Judith cried, "and, oh, those southern
roses."

"Not half so fragrant as the honeysuckle all over this old
porch, and not half so pretty as the hollyhocks and marigolds
rnd batchelor buttons — "

"And the burdock leaves — " John interrupted Edna teas-
ingly. He psver could get over the array of Paris hats she had
fashioned from them that first night in the over-grown garden.

"You two seem frightfully happy," Judith sighed enviously
as she noted the tender intimacy between th,em, at the same time
casting about for some way to slip her hand unobtrusively into
Phil's by way of an attempt at making up. John and Edna,
noting her, contrived to gaze studiously into the fire, and soon
both couples were building castles in the flames and embers.

"You are going to stay with us, you know," Edna urged
when they finally spoke of going home. "There is a spare bed-
room all ready for you. It is the last of our vacation and honey-
moon, and we ought to spend it together."

"We'll have to go home," Judith spoke with reluctance.
"Our families will be expecting us. But I'd like to dream here
forever. Traveling is interesting;, but it can get on one's nerves
when everything goes frightfully wrong."

This was recognized as Judith's apolosry for her little out-
burst against Phil when she first arrived. Phil patted her hand
affectionately to show he understood and cherished no resent-
ment.

"Well, we couldn't afford a real trip, so we came here to
'The Forest of Arden,' as Edna calls it, and dreamed all kinds

HEARTS AND HOLLYHOCKS 135

of adventure, not one of which could be so wonderful as to lhe
here all the time."

"It would be lonely for Edna while you were gone all day,"
Judith demurred. "And then it would be awkward for you to
have to walk so far after work."

"Walking is good exercise," John maintained. "But I
hadn't thought it might be lonsly for Edna here all day." He
spoke like a school boy whose pet bubble has burst just when
he had hoped it might last forever.

"It is surely cozy here," Phil agreed, "but there is no use
turning hermit yet awhile." Here Judith and Phil exchanged
meaningful glances and a minute later there was the sound of a
car stopping and a medley of voices and laughter coming up the
graveled walk. There was a chorus of oh's and ah's! when the
door opened and the parents of all but John stood on the
threshold.

"We tracked you young scallywags," Phil's father laughed.
"How did you come to think of this place to hide a honeymoon

in

"It was entirely John's idea," Edna smiled proudly.

"Yes, and he wants to hide Edna here for the rest of her
life," Phil joked.

"Nonsense," Phil's father exploded, "we'll soon put a stop
to all that. Get on your toggery all of you. We're going to
kidnap you and take you all back to civilization."

"All except Edna and her captor," John declared. "We
must finish our honeymoon here. Unless she'd rather go."

"I couldn't go yet," Edna agreed. "It's going to be hard
enough in the morning, even. We've been so happy here. I
almost dread to change. "

She spoke so sincerely and with such evident regret at the
thought of leaving, that after a few protests, the group went
merrily away.

"This may change your minds somewhat," Phil's father
smiled as he placed a sealed envelope in John's hands and
hurried away.

"And this may change Edna's notions," her father cried,
affectionately pressing a similar envelope into her hand. "Now,
don't open them till we are out of sight," he commanded. "And
remember John's letter is to be opened first."

"What do you suppose it is?" Edna wondered, when the
sound of the cars was no longer audible.

"Something good, of course," John hazarded. "Phil's father
never does anything else. And yet somehow I dread to open it.
I'm superstitious I suppose. These two weeks have been so
perfect, I know they can't last forever. And I know nothing else

136 IMPROVEMENT ERA

could ever be better. I feel like Adam and Eve must have felt
when they turned their backs on Paradise."

"Silly boy," Edna laughed happily. "We'll take our Para-
dise right along with us. Now open the letter."

After John had opened it, he stood silent so long that Edna
came and peeped over his shoulder. "It's just what I feared,"
he said thoughtfully.

"Feared," Edna almost shrieked for joy. 'O, goody, goody,
goody! Why can't you read, you foolish? Oh, hurrah! hur-
rah! They've given us the lot next to Phil's and Judith's. It's
right where they are going to build. Judie and I will be side
by side again. We won't even have a fence between. It will be
just as Judie and I have always been. Oh, isn't h,e the grandest
man on earth, Phil's father? He must love you as if you were
his son. I suppose he knows how Judith and I have always been.
Oh, aren't you glad, darling?"

"You don't realize, sweetheart," John explained seriously.
"There is the lot right enough, but how can pennyless John
build a house on it?"

"Couldn't we mortgage the lot for enough to build the
house?"

"We might get one third of th,e amount necessary, that way."

"Well, couldn't we build just a small house at first?"

"How would you feel in a small house while Judith was
next door in a large one?"

"Oh, I shouldn't mind it at first."

"But that is the residence! part of town. Every house along
the street is handsome and pretentious. I hoped we might stav
here or in some modest neighborhood where we would not have
to be in competition always with those whose fortunes are made.
Then we could save and build when we could afford to and as
we could afford to build, instead of being forced into some-
thing beyond our means."

"But we can't refuse," Edna cried in dismay. "Why, we
haven't opened father's letter yet."

John looked on while Edna hurriedly tore open the en-
velop. Then she suddenly flung the letter into the air and caught
John about the neck. "Oh, you darling. It is solved. The
whole thing is solved. Isn't he the dandiest daddy?"

"He is going to put up for us to build with?" John asked with-
out enthusiasm,.

"However could you guess? No, it isn't that. Poor daddy
couldn't do that. He will go on our notes though, and help us
to get the money so we can build right while we are about it.
Why, you don't seem a bit relieved, John I think you are
dreadfully ungrateful."

HEARTS AND HOLLYHOCKS 137

"It isn't that, sweetheart. It's only — oh, well, I guess it will
come out all right. After all it's the set of the sail, and not the
gale that determines the way we go!'"

Edna went to sleep that night to dream happily of a beau-
tiful modern home of her own. John was at her side, and Judith
was just across the yard. John, however, tossed wakefully.

"I suppose it is wicked and stupid and ungrateful of me,"
he thought to himself. "But I don't want a home on another
man's bounty. And I know that notes have a way of falling due
just whether one is ready to meet them or not. And usually
one is no more ready to meet them when they fall due than he
was when he made them out. But that is not the worst feature
of this. It is that living up to Judith and Phil eternally, whether
we can or not. It is the one fear I have about our marriage."

Towards morning John dozed off to dream ridiculously of
sheriff's scales, bridge luncheons, sedan cars and> — well, he
wouldn't even name the other picture that came. But as this
latter figment of a troubled brain flitted before the vision of his
unconsciousness, he woke with a start and a yawn of grateful
return to consciousness.

"Whatever happens; it is Edna's happiness, not my notions,
that must be considered," he decided. "I must make the little
girl happy. And her heart seems set on this. Come on, little
worr»an," he called gaily, as Edna opened her eyes. "We've got
to get back to realities and plunge into life in earnest."
(To be continued)

In the Beautiful Valley of Life

I was weary and worn with much care.

Great sorrow and grief I had known ;
The hour seemed as one of despair

Whence joy, like a fleet hird, had flown.

Yet e'en down by the valley of death
I found that my Savior seemed near,

To whisper of comfort and faith,

Saying this — "You have nothing to fear."

0 blessed Redeemer of mine,

If the valley of death be so sweet,

Then what of the valley of life,
With a harvest of glory replete?

0 ye who now strive for that goal,
Take courage, the victory is near;

Remember His dear, precious words,
And you will have "Nothing to fear."
Berkeley, California Annie G. LaurUzen

Large Families"

Dr. C. L. Olsen

The term "a large family," intuitively brings before our
mind's eye, for the sake of comparison, the small family, as well
as larger and smaller ones. Even the thought of a family without
children crowds in upon us.

In discussing the subject before us, we must first endeavor
to show the necessity for children to be born at all, unto their
parents — and, likewise, the necessity of parents allowing children
to be born untoi them. And, thank God, we are not left in the
dark concerning this matter; neither do we have to depend upon
the whims and fancies of mortal man, in determining this import-
ant issue.

It should not require a great deal of argument to convince
Latter-day Saints, particularly, that to bear children is a mis-
sion, divinely appointed to all of God's children. There can be
no room for argument about this question, which has ones and
for all time been settled, by an Authority, which no Christian,
at least will doubt.

"To the law and to the testimony." So, let us turn to Holy
Writ: When the all-wise Creator had finished his great work,
preparing this earth as an abode for his children while they
should sojourn in mortality, and he had placed upon this, his
footstool, our first parents, "God" — I am quoting — "blessed
them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and re-
plenish the earth." To multiply urns intended as a blessing--
not as a punishment.

To inherit an earthly tabernacle is the only means by
which the spirit of man can possibly advance and in course of
time become like his heavenly Father. If it is true — which of
course it is — that "all of God's children must receive bodies be-
fore this earth and its inhabitants will have fulfilled the great
purpose for which they were created," it is clear that the respon-
sibility of allowing children to be born, or of denying them that
natural right, rests upon those who, as husbands and wives, have,
impliedly, accepted the mission of becoming parents, if God shall
grant them the privilege. These great truths must be self-evi-
dent to every right-thinking man or woman.

*An address delivered before the Advanced Senior Class. M. I. A., and
others over sixteen years of age, Miller ward, Granite Stake, March 7, 1922.

LARGE FAMILIES 139

What, you say, are all men subject to this law, the law gov-
erning the multiplying of species? Yes, absolutely. Every
healthy individual, not only human beings, but lower animals,
as well, instinctively respond to the nuiversal law of reproduction.
None but the coward, the faint-hearted weakling, or selfish crea-
ture will attempt to evade it. Listen to the immortal shake-
speare :

"Torches are made to light, jewels to wear,
Dainties to taste, fresh beauty for use,

Herbs for their smell, and sappy plants to bear;
Things growing to themselves are growth's abuse:

Seeds spring from seeds, and beauty breedeth beauty,

Thou wast begot — to get it is thy duty.

"Upon the earth's increase why shouldst thou feed,
Unless the earth with thy increase be fed?

By law of Nature thou art bound to breed,

That thine may live, when thou thyself art dead;

And so in spite of death thou dost survive,

In that thy likeness still is left alive."

Man, the Creator's master piece, the crowning glory of God's
creation, is the only being capable of designedly thwarting his
Maker's plan. Elder Joseph A. West, in his excellent article,
"Marriage" (Era, Feb., 1922) referring to a statement in the
Oregonian, says:

"The American family of fifty years ago averaged a little over five
children; whereas now it averages but a little over two; one hundred and
fifty years ago, the average was about eight," and adds, "We have besides
an innumerable host of men and women who fail to comply with God's
first great commandment — to multiply and replenish the earth."

Referring to the U. S. census for the decennium ending with
1920. the Springfield Republican has this to say regarding the
relative size of the American family :

"The traditional statistical convention of five in a family [meaning
parents and children] is apparently due for revision before very long. The
Census Bureau now reports the average at 4.3, having declined from five in
1880 to 4.9 in 1890 ; to 4.7 in 1900 and to 4.5 in 1910."

Comparisons are odious; but they are mighty telling for all
of that. We, the Latter-day Saints, need not go back 150 years
to find some very valuable food for reflection. I well remember
the time — and I am not old, by any means — when we boasted
eight as being the number of an average Latter-day Saint family,
as against five for the United States as a whole. And what are
the comparative averages today? About 6 to 4%!

And now we are brought face to face with the subject
under discussion from another angle, namely that of quality:
Referring specifically to the number of children in a family, the

140 IMPROVEMENT ERA

proposition, "It is not quantity but quality that counts," has been
variously stated by several eminent men time and again, publicly
and pri\ ately, in speeches and in writings. The statement sounds
plausible, logical, in fact! therefore, it is frequently repeated,
parrot-like, by those who readily take things for granted. Hav-
ing been allowed to go unchallenged — at least, I have never heard
anyone attempting to disprove its accuracy — the assertion has
gained credence, while even well-informed persons have accepted
the argument as finally settled.

To be sure, quality and not quantity is paramount in some,
perhaps most, of human undertakings, for extample, soldiers in
a given encounter; aeroplane pilots, sea captains, the personnel
of an Arctic expedition, etc. But in e^ ery single instance, the so
much desired "quality" depends on individual selection, wheth-
er it be from the ranks of the drafted men, the most skilful
aviators, the careful mariners or from explorers, renowned for
their intrepidity.

But notwithstanding such selection and the greatest care
imaginable being exercised in human calculations, the actual
outcome may prove a disappointment. For wherever the human
equation operates, the ultimate results are problematical — they
may or may not measure up to expectations. These deductions
hold good in any human venture; and rearing a family of chil-
dren, the greatest of all human ventures, is no exception. "The
best laid plans of men and mice aft gang aglee." The unsinkable
Titanic sinks; the majestic Roma crashes to the ground, a seeth-
ing mass of flames, abruptly ending the expected glorious career
of its noble crew; Shakleton, the daring explorer, dies before
reaching his goal.

To make the proposition, "It is not quantity but quality
that counts," an axiom as applied to the number of children in a
family, is absurd. It is the feeble echo of quibbling man, strug-
aling to find an excuse for not allowing nature to take its course.
It is the hollow creed of so-called sexual reformers; the untenable
theory of the ultra-scientific mind, in search for something with
which "to soothe the unholv throng," bending every energy to
find an excuse for disregarding this divine injunction: Multi-
plv! The evil one does not care how this is done, if he can but
frain the victory.

Now, let us for a few moments calmly consider the question,
viewing; it from a rational standpoint: The quality of the pro-
duct depends upon the quality of the material. Analogically,
the same rule governs the human product; hence, if the qualitv
in children he deficient, the onlv remedv lies in obtaining bet-
ter "material." How? Bv selection. Can any human being
make such selection? No. The quality of the spirit determines

LARGE FAMILIES 141

the quality of the child, the man or the wornan. It does not in
the least depend upon the number of children in a given family.
Such a homely proverb, as: "You can never make a silk purse
from a sow's ear," can be applied to human beings, even.

Fortunately, the Lord has not entrusted puny, whimsical
mortals with the privilege of selecting from among his spirits
the particular one or ones they may happen to want — spirits
which, when embodied, should be nobis, beautiful and strong,
and possess a surpassing degree of "quality." This particular
prerogative the Lord has reserved unto himself. He may in his
inscrutable wisdom see fit to send some superior spiritual intelli-
gences to obtain earthly tabernacles, in one or another dispensa-
tion, all to bring about his holy purposes.

In explaining the meaning of the extravagant proposition
mentioned (and its exact language has been quoted) its pro-
ponents will say that according to science, if parents could be in-
duced not to burden themselves with so many children, but
rather be satisfied with, say, one or two, they would be able
to pay more attention to these, provide them with better homes,
better food, better clothes and more enjoyment; surround them
with more "refined" associates, give them a better education, etc.,
and that these considerations will bring about the so greatly
desired "quality." The fact is, that parents, and would-be or
should-be parents, today are burdened with too much "science"
altogether, in connection with the rearing of children, while com-
mon sense is side-tracked, The "problem" of parenthood, that
frightful bugbear of latter-day sinners, is ding-donged in our
ears, in season and out of season.

Parents and parents-to-be, take heart! Do not heed the
specious pleadings of zealous social "reformers," who are trying
to show you how God's plan can be improved upon. Quietly
study your own condition; consider the following facts, and
weigh them carefully. Each and every spirit, both before and
after entering mortality, is an individual entity. As such, and
hairing been endowed with ability to choose between good and
evil, and gw en an inalienable right to exercise his or her free
agency, all that parents can do, in rearing a family of children,
is to teach them sound doctrine, instil in them correct principles,
set them a good example, and endeavor to the best of their
ability to bring them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
There is a limit to responsibilitv- even, so that mortals need not
feel dismayed, but, filled with faith, hope and charity they may
accept the call to parenthood, confidently trusting in an over-
ruling Providence. "Suffer little children, and forbid them not,
to come unto me." Such was the call of the Savior. Before
children can come unto him, they must be born. And woe unto

142 IMPROVEMENT ERA

those who intentionally "forbid" God's spirits to enter into mor-
tality, thus hindering them from progressing in the scale of
intelligence.

Ah, yes, eugenics and eusthenics! We must not forget to
mention them. When these interesting subjects — so fascinating,
because of their plausibilities — shall have been worn threadbare,
depend upon it, some new euphonic term will be coined, for eru-
dite, grave-visaged bachelors and spinsters, to prate and orate
about. Meanwhile, people with common sense, healthy bodies,
sound minds and natural instincts will go right ahead and people
this world in the good, old-fashioned way, heeding nature's
promptings and not the silly admonitions of their inferiors.

Now let us look at the large family as an actuality: The
potential large family admits of academical discussions; the
actual large family is a domestic reality, where polemical disput-
ations as to the whys and wherefores, and the eventful outcome
of the venture, are out of place.

A large family is not necessarily a bedlam, where confusion
reigns supreme. It is rather comparable to a colony of busy
bees, where each indi^ idual member either has learned, or is
learning, to do something useful, not only for her own self, but
for the good of the whole "colony." The mothsr, that dignified,
guiding load-star in the home, may be compared to the stately
queen-bee, as she quietly, calmy, but well aware of her command-
ing station, moves about in the "hive", directing e\ery activity
of all the inmates.

The popular refrain. "Everybody works but father," does
not apply to the head of a large family, especially if he and his
wife start housekeeping on daily wages, a meagre bank account,
or, as more often happens, without any tangible assets. If he
is not poor, his large familv will very likely both make him and
keep him poor, that is, in this world's goods.

If ever — as we are told was the case in in good, old Ameri-
can days of yore — children were considered as representing in-
trinsic money value to their parents, their rating on any such
basis is long since obsolete. At present, the exchange quota-
tion?, on the child-market are decidedly bearish/ — I believe that
would be the oroper Wall Street term. But for all of that, the
!"an having a large family of children — of anywhere near decent
rhildren — is rich, indeed. Perhaps not rich in money, stocks or
bonds, but in possessing the inner satisfaction that he is a man,
and not a mouce. He takes at its face value the scriptural
declaration: "Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord. As ar-
rows are in the hand of a mighty man, so are children. Happy
is the man that h?th h^s rrerver full of them: thev shall not be
ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate."

LARGE FAMILIES

143

Modernizing his attitude as understood by the phrase,
"speaking with the enemies in the gate," such a man — one,
deserving having that masculine designation spelt with a capital
M — manfully taking his part among men and endeavoring to do
his full duty as husband, father, neighbor, and citizen, has
learned by heart the admonition of our virile western bard, the
inimitable Walt Whitman: "Live so every day that you can look

any man in the face and tell him to go to ," and he may feel

tempted to use the closing word of this rather vigorous thunder
bolt, if he be accosted by the birth-control vituperator, made the
target for ribald jokes or flippant jests or assailed by the sancti
monious hypocrite.

And as for the children in large families, they compare at
least very favorably with those coming from the smaller-sized
family. Trained, not only didactically but in actual practice, to
curb selfish tendencies; to share with others their little joys;
not only to recite the Golden Rule, but to live it, they, generally
"make good," so that when turned out the finished product, they
stand up, four square, as men, not lisping sissies; women, not
fashion-plate chromos.

Now let ms say to you mentally and physically strong young
men and women of marriageable age: Get married. Beget chil-
dren— don't be scared; let them come, as many as God is willing
to send you. You will be all the happier for bidding these pre-
cious spirits welcome, taking them in your arms and into your
homes. Do not try to interfere with the course of nature, as
regards bearing children. Let no one make you believe that if
you ha^e "too many" children both they and you will suffer
from hunger on that account, in this blessed land. For, as true
as it is written:

"In some way or other, the Lord will provide;

It may not be my way,

It may not be thy way,
And yet in his own way the Lord will provide."

/

By Whose Authority?

By Reinhard Maeser, of the Brighatni Young University

The contention still persists that there is and always has
been with man an unbroken line of authority to administer in
spiritual blessings since the days that Christ conferred this
power upon Peter; but this seeins to be untenable in the light of
history. To present some of the evidences pointing to a complete
departure from the primitive Church, is the purpose of this
paper, and it is hoped that the presentation shall not be trite,
not a mere retelling of the evidences commonly used to show
that there has been as complete falling away from the apostolic
Church as the Scriptures predicted there should be.

In this presentation I have drawn from the following works :
Kurtz, Lehrbueh der Kirchengeschichte ; Piper, Zuegen der
Wahrheit; Lecky, History of European Morals; Gibbon's,
Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire; Rishell, History of
Christianity and others. The diversified and authentic sources
from which gleanings have been made, should lend considerable
security to the truthfulness as well as the varied conceptions and
practices of its ordinances and interpretations of its principles.

A necessity for entering upon any explanation of the organi-
zation and doings of the Church in the days of Christ's personal
ministry is not apparent for the purposes of this exposition. I
am accepting the accounts of these things as they are made
known to us in the New Testament. For the sake, however,
of contrast, comparison, or adjustment, or to correct forms or
sayings, references may from time to time be made to those
primal days of Christianity.

Augustus Ceasar was the first Emperor of Rome, and it
was during this reign that Christ organized his Church and
chose and commissioned some to carry on the work after his
earthly mission should be completed.

It does not appear presumptive for me to say that Jesus or-
ganized his Church, placed therein such principles and ordi-
nances of salvation, and such officers and. authority properly
to function in all these things. That Christ knew the require-
ments for eternal life; that he knew the necessary laws to be
obeyed for one to become a citizen in his father's kingdom:
that he knew the ordinances to be observed for one to gain
^salvation and exaltation, cannot be gainsaid. These laws, prin-

. BY WHOSE AUTHORITY 145

ciples, ordinances, he made known to the people, and before
his final leaving, he particularly commissioned twelve of his
faithful disciples to carry on the work after his departure.

No one claiming Christian standing is going to deny Jesus
Christ the right of authority to establish his Church upon these
principles and ordinances which he knew, from their eternal
and saving character, were and are the only ones containing the
possibility of salvation and exaltation in the kingdom of God.
"He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that
obey him," Heb. 5:9. These principles and ordinances were
not given by the Lord just for the day or the time, but they are
fundamental, eternal, ne^er changing. (Gal. 1:8; Eph. 4; Ps.
145:13.)

If now we can accept the thought that Jesus Christ did
promulgate the essential and life-enduring principles of the
gospel; that he did organize his Church and set therein "some
apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors, teach-
ers, and gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of ton-
gues, for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the min-
istry, for the edifying of the body of Christ" (Cor. 12:18; Eph.
4:11, 12 J then, may we ask, whose business is it, or whose right,
in any wise, or in the least particular, to modify, change, or
entirely eliminate any of these principles, ordinances, or of-
fices? (Gal. 1:8-12 ) Many scriptures might be referred to,
establishing the never-ending and enduring nature of the gos-
pel as Jesus gave it and taught it to his disciples. Among these
attention is called to Rom. 1:16-17; Rev. 14:6; Ps. 9:12; 145:13.

After Jesus had sent the other Comforter, of whom he
spoke to his apostles, and they were fully empowered and au-
thorized to go on with the work he had left for them to do,
(Matt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15-20) he nowhere commissioned them
to make any changes. (Gal. 1=8.) "But, though we, or an angel
from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which
we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."

Soon after the death of the Savior, the Church was once
m»re set in order, the quorum of apostles was filled up, mis-
sionaries were sent forth, the apostles themselves acting in this
capacity. Then came the warning cry to the Church that "many
false prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many," and "griev-
ous wolves shall enter in among you, not sparing the flock."

In the course of time the twelve all died, and they had left
none to fill the vacancies thus caused. Here and there for pos-
sibly a hundred years or so. some t estige of authority remained,
but all idea of organizing the adherents into one great Church,
as in the days of Christ, was no longer considered. Contentions
arose early respecting some of the doctrines, and as the branches

146 IMPROVEMENT ERA

were scattered pretty much their own interpretations were made
and accepted. Thus there came early to be diversities of opin-
ion and practices. (I Cor. 1:12,) From heathenism, too, came
many mysteries, and prominent among those entering wedges
was Gnosticism. This sought the mystery that hid itself in
Christianity; for back of the truth, it was supposed, lay the
facts with which the common faith contented itself; and the
Gnostic, through his philosophy, believed it to be his business
to discover this to mankind. This came in contact with the
church as early as the days of the apostles, and more noticeable
in the second century. It set in place of Christianity a philo-
sophical religion presumed to be clearer to the understanding.
By this schism the living God of the Christian was to be changed
unto the unknown god of the philosophers and of the mysteries.

"From the middle of the second century forward, a constant secular-
ization of the church was in progress. Christianity partook of the spirit of
the world. As early as the middle of this century one saw in spirit the
picture of a church full of wrinkles, blemishes, and weaknesses. When the
Roman state, of the times of Decius and Diocletian, proposed to wage a war
of extinction against Christianity, it found itself opposed by a church from
which the spirit of the first witnesses had departed — a church which had
become worldly, and which had fallen from its ideal. Hence, the many
apostasies, hence the fearful desolation, which especially in the last great
persecutions, broke up the church." — Taken from Christianity and its In-
stitutions.

What else could be expected when the attack was from
within and from without? Gnosticism gnawed at the vitals —
was an inward attack; the persecutions of the several Roman
rulers — a destructive force, came from without. The inner
disruption was by far the more fatal, it took away everything
and gave nothing in return. The god of the Gnostic was the
"abyss" the "silence," the "non-existent," the "incomprehen-
sible;" and here the Church found its most bitter enemy; an
enemy inimical to her welfare. The whole of the second, and
part of the third, centuries were taken up in this struggle against
the insidious inroads of Gnosticism, in whose philosophy the
Church was brought face to face with the mightiest power of the
time. If we take into account that Gnosticism satisfied the
masses with its mvstic customs and ceremonies, the whole heath-
en world with the charm of its ancient mysteries, its promise
to satisfy both mind and heart, and its harmony with tradi-
tionary views, its promise to satisfy the better disposed by a
severe morality, firmly held by most of its systems— we can prob-
ably understand the real danger which threatened the Church
from this source. No physical persecution could accomplish
such tremendous and speedy results as could the appeal to
the spiritual of this so cleverly and deftly contrived philosophy

BY WHOSE AUTHORITY 147

with such generous, yet mysterious ceremonies and customs.
Why, it was the very treaty of peace offered by the contending
factions. After this struggle between the Church and Gnosti-
cism the Church fixed certain principles, certain doctrines,
which were considered to be orthodox. There was finally es-
tablished a canon of the New Testament scripture, i. e., the
books which came "to be recognized as authoritative witnesses of
Christian truth in contra-distinction to Gnostic error." Through
this conflict also was formed the future government of the
church, in which "she (the church) did not come forth as the
same institution which entered the struggle."

It was now maintain ad that where two or three were met to-
gether "there was the church." It was the church which was
gathered and which acted in every assembly of believers; no
human priesthood was needed. In each assembly of believers
existed the right of baptism and administration of the Lord's
Supper; a formal organization of the church binding upon all
Christians, was unknown.

Gradually the original, genuine apostolic conception of the
Church passed away, and the Catholic conception now appeared,
and the foundation of the Roman Catholic church was laid.

Insidiously the state intruded itself more and more upon
the church until it came soon to be looked upon as an ally,
claiming certain rights and privileges among which we find the
Emperor assuming it as his right to fill personally the highest
church office in case of vacancy. The friendship of the state
became far more dangsrous than its enmity.

From century to century changes were made. Some being
terribly fatal to the spiritual life of the church, drning it
farther and farther from any semblance of its original form.

Of the third century, it is said, "All the monuments of ihis
century which have come down to us show that there was a great
increase of ceremonies." During the fourth century rites and
ceremonies were taken from the old Greek and Roman forms of
reverence toward their imaginary deities, and were made a part
of the Christian ritual. And so progress was rapidly being
made toward a condition wherein no semblance of the Re-
deemer's established Church could be found. Evident it is
that the Christianity of today is at best nothing more ;han life-
less bones as compared with the once vigorous, heaven-inspired
primitive Church. Alexander Campbell puts it thus, "Till that
great and notable day of the Lord come, we cannot from the
prophetic word, anticipate a universal return to the original
gospel, or a general restoration of the kingdom of God in its
primitive form."

As we have passed along in this general survey of the gradual

148 IMPROVEMENT ERA

departure (from the Christ-established gospel, we have hot
found anywhere a single isntance where such change, innova-
tion, elimination, or modification, was justified by a revelation
of which the Lord, through Amos, emphasizes the necessity,
(Amos 3:7) when he says, "Surely the Lord God will do nothing,
but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."

History has told the story. Indelibly stamped upon its
pages are found the evidences of the departure from the prin-
ciples, ordinances, and practices of the primal Church. Isaiah
speaks with much power, and confirms the contention that the
laws have been transgressed, the ordinances have been changed,
and the everlasting covenant has been broken. (Is. 24:5.)

If these facts show that there has been a breaking away
from the primitive Church, and that the history fails to state by
whose authority these innovations were made, and it is further
shown with some clearness that among the numerous so-called
Christian churches of today, not one of them, nor all of them
in combination, as Smith's Bible Dictionary, p. 163, says, contain
the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the purpose of this presentation will
have been accomplished.
Provo, Utah.

That Lad

When I come home all tired out,

No pep left in my knees,
And throw myself upon the couch,

That lad begins to tease.
He takes my pencil from my coat,

My watch fob from my vest:
He smears my order book with jam

And climbs upon my chest.
He wants to ride a bucking horse

So grabs my new silk tie;
And when I see those eyes of his —

I simply have to try.
We tumble o'er the couch and floor

And make an awful noise —
Then mother says, with pleasing eyes:

"I'm glad we're not all boys."
I've seen rich men with childless wives

Grow surly, old and gray —
Ah, I am glad I have a lad

Who coaxes me to play.
Blackjoot, Idaho George E. Gibby

Doing Common Things in an
Uncommon Way

A. Study for the Advanced Senior Class, M. I. A. 1922-23

By Dr. George H. Brimlwll, President Emeritus, Brigluim Young

University

Lesson X — Making Promises

Importance.— Promise-making is the exercise of free agency
in putting oneself under an obligation. Take away the power
to promise, and you cut down one-half of the tree of liberty.
Promise-making is a privilege of putting character up for se-
curity, and affords the will a field of action obtainable in no
other way. "I promise," should mean, "I will fulfil." A young
man when told that he could escape payment of a debt because
it was unsecured replied, "Unsecured! Why it is secured by my
word, and my word is the best part of me. I am mortgaged to
pay that debt and I will." That young man was Lincoln; in his
words was the history of an honest past,. a strong present, and
a prosperous future. A promise is always, in essence, a prophecy-
fulfilment by the self concerning the self. Making promises and
fulfiling them are the two processes that keep civilization from
coming to a dead standstill. Making promises and keeping them
is placed paramount- even above creation, by the greatest of all
Teachers. Matt. 24:35.

Some Common Promise-Making.
Promising under psychic pressure.— We have all had the
experience of feeling the pull of coaxing or persuasion against
our judgment. In such cases it is a good thing to have some
place of refuge such as, "I'll see father about it," or I 11 ask
mother," or "I'll consult my wife." The mental pull is a great
source of success to the salesman.

Making promises to escape annoyance. The young woman
who promises to marry a suitor to get rid of him was quite
as consistent as the parent who makes promises to a child where
importunities are simply annoying.

Promising with nothing but hope for the fulfilment. Mak-
ing promises when the means of fulfilment are just within the
range of possibility is gambling with one's character; it is tak-

150 IMPROVEMENT ERA

ing fearful chances with one's good name. Indulgence in this ad-
venturous promise-making is symptomatic of an ethical break-
down.

The Uncommon Promise-Making

There is much truth in the saying, "Promises slow in the
making are hard in the breaking. Promises quickly spoken
are easily broken." The uncommon promise has behind it not
only good intention, but deliberation, for deliberation is the only
safe anchorage for determination. Uncommon promises will
contain consistency. A promise should be consistent with the
worthiness of the cause in favor of which it is made, the merits
of the person to whom it is made, and the ability of the one
making the promise.

Written Promises

The superior value of written promises lies in the fact that
"paper does not forget." It holds the pledges without modifica-
tions. The making of a written promise by signing one's name
should be preceded by an uncommonly careful reading, and if it
be a complex document its contents should be submitted to ex-
pert inspection. Lenders may well be cautious of the borrower
who manifests any carelessness in his method of getting loans.
Carelessness is not always wrongfully considered next to crook-
edness in business.

Religious Promises

Covenants is the name by which a religious promise is
known. The incomparable binding force of religious promises
has been utilized in social and civic affairs. The spiritual ele-
ment of promise-making has been wisely made a part of the
marriage vow, and of the pledges of officers of the law, as
security against failure in the performance of duty. The "Oath
of Office" is superior to any simple affirmation. As to Latter-
day Saint covenants, see Gospel Doctrine, p. 132.

Questions and Problems

1. Wherein is the sacrament service a renewal of covenants?

2. How is the prayer for the sanctification of the water related to
attending to our prayers and paying our tithing-

3. How is a "Mormon's" credit among men affected by his tithe-paying
habit?

4. Wherein is a temple marriage vow naturally stronger than a civic
one?

5. Why should we refuse to promise when under the psychic pull of
persuasion against our judgment?

6. Mention some good ways of escape from a powerful persuader.

7. What should always be done before signing a written promise?

8. Distinguish between the promise made in a warrantee deed and one
of quit claim.

DOING COMMON THINGS IN AN UNCOMMON WAY 151

9. Discuss this proposition: Carelessness in promise-making is the
chief cause of promise-breaking.

10. Give summary of President Joseph F. Smith's teaching concerning
Covenants of the Latter-day Saints.

11. How is one's character and happiness affected by the habit of mak-
ing new promises as an escape from keeping old ones?

Lesson XI — Keeping Secrets

What a Secret Is

A secret is defined as that which should not be told. This
definition makes it the duty of everyone to hold back or keep
from divulgence even the truth, without a belief that it ought
to be divulged. Perhaps it would be better to define a secret as
information which one is under obligation not to divulge. And
when we say obligation we should keep in mind the application
of the Golden Rule. A secret may be called a truth-trust, and
truth is always sacred, and becomes emphatically so when held
in trust.

Two Common Ways of Keeping Secrets

One of thfe most common ways of keeping secrets consists
in getting someone to help keep them. Usually the dhulgence
of a secret is accompanied with a confession, "I ought not to
tell," and the injunction, "of course, you will not tell." A little
thought will reveal that the teller expects the hearer to be more
ethical than his informant. The transaction analyzed contains
the following facts: One party has proved his inability to hold
a sacred trust, and another person has had burdensome re-
sponsibility unnecessarily imposed upon him. Confidence is
weakened, and danger is doubled. This form of keeping secrets
writes upon the walls of our character, the sentence found re-
corded in Daniel 5:27.

Another common form of keeping secrets is the holding
back of that which should be told. Failing to speak when duty
calls is indicative of weakness called cowardice A kindness that
makes a secret of contagion becomes a monstrous cruelty. One
who is in possession of the enemies' secret and fails to inform the
proper authority merits the same contempt as one who reveals
the secret of his camp to the enemy. There is a wide difference
between tattling and official reporting. One breeds mischief,
the other sustains law and order.

It is all too common to keep secrets from boys and girls
which they are almost certain to find out from sources of the
lower social levels. They are left to "pick up" what should
be provided for them as a part of their education. The Twen-
tieth Century youth is entitled to be brought up rather than left
to just "grow up." Parents and teachers must rise above this

152 IMPROVEMENT ERA

common secret-keeping with a realization that the youth has a
right to know what he ought to know from higher sources than
that of the street or other accidental meeting places.

Some Uncommon Secret-Keeping

We are so knit together that the sins of individuals hurt the
group, and where the publication of names will hurt more than
it will help, the policy of "withholding names" is in keeping
with the ways of wisdom. See Doc. & Cov., Sec. 42:88-93. A
mercifully preserved reputation may form a shield behind
which successful character-mending may be carried on. There
is a royal kind of secret-keeping which consists in refusing to
let pass one's lips that which is defamatory to persons of good
reputation. When slander spits her venom, uncommon secret-
keeping refuses to spread her virus.

Family secrets. — The high grads offspring will play the
part of Shem and Japhet. See Gen 9:20-27. The true wife
makes her bosom a silent tomb of her husband's failings, unless
dissolution of partnership is at hand. And the worth-whils
husband couples not the name of his wife with her short com-
ings. "We all have our little faults," and some of us have big
ones, but the man who talks about his wife unfavorably well
deserves the title of a "boob" or a "bad one."

Secret Keeping an Accompaniment of Safety and Greatness

Uncommon secret keeping keeps one from falling into two
errors, exceeding authority and overstepping the bounds of pro-
priety. Light may be turned on in blinding qualities and truth
has its time for publication. Perhaps no prophet was more
thoroughly tested in the line of secret-keeping than was the
Prophgt Joseph Smith. He faced the scorn and persecution of
his enemies and the importunities of his friends and loved ones,
and was true to his trust. History of the Church, Vol. I, p. 56;
Doc. & Cov., Sec. 25:1-4.

Questions and Problems

1. When does information become ethirally a secret?

2. Show how the golden rule should be applied in keeping secrets.

3. What is the chief value of secrets: (a) to the individual? (b) to
society?

4. Discuss this proposition: Tell secrets to those entitled to know
them.

5. What is the law of the Lord concerning the publicity of sin?

6. Discuss the difference between tattling and officially reporting.

7. What does failure to keep a secret reveal about our past, our
present, and our probable future?

8. What danger is doubled by getting someone to help keep a secret?

DOING COMMON THINGS IN AN UNCOMMON WAY 153

9. Discuss: Talking about home difficulties is like dumping home
garbage on the highway.

10. Discuss: The teaching about life and its sources should not be left
to the boy "gang," and to the girl "set.''

11. Quote the words of Jesus concerning propriety in revealing the
truth. See John 16:12.

12. Give illustrations of the fact that uncommon secret-keeping is an
accompaniment of greatness.

13. Explain professional secret-keeping and discuss its value.

14. In what uncommon way did Bok increase the interest of both men
and women in his magazines? Chapter 18, Americanization of Edward Bok.

15. Read to the class President Roosevelt's letter to Bok, and discuss
the revelation of personal character contained in the communication.
Amer icanizatimi- of Edward Bok, Chapter 19.

16. Explain the plan of "raising babies by mail." Bok, Ch. 16.

Lesson XII — Making Good
The Meaning of the Term
"Making good" has come to mean winning one's way with
little concentration of purpose or method. It of times covers
the sentiment, "Put money into thy pocket, honestly if thou
canst, but put money into thy pocket." That application of
the term is to be dismissed with the statement that there is no
making good in a bad cause or in any bad way whatever, and
that making good shall mean winning fairly in a good cause.

The Three Essentials to "Making Good?'

Aim, Enthusiasm, and Industry. Without an aim, a pur-
pose or an objective, making good becomes a matter of accident.
Persons of luck may indulge in an aimless life, but those of
pluck will insist upon having a purpose; to them life is a prob-
lem, not a pastime. Psychology tells us that the grade of one's
intelligence may be measured by one's power to see and pur-
sue a purpose, and that the greater the distance between the
person and the purpose, the higher the intelligence. In other
words, the power to work and wait for results is an index to the
intelligence of the individual. The "Bohemian" who must be
paid his wage every night is of no such timber as the person
who can wait to the month-end for his check. It is obedience
to this law that places in the front rank, those who work on and
en for preparation. Such persons show their superiority by beino;
able to pursue an objective from a distance that discourages the
weaker ones. The greatest of all leaders had his great objective
beyond the clock ticks of mortality. Without a purpose we
face the darkened sun of doom's day.

Purpiose puts light into a dungeon. The story is told of a
prisoner who, cast into a dark cell found himself approaching
a state of despair. Finding four pins in his clothin" he scat-
tered them about the dungeon and set himself the task of find-

154 IMPROVEMENT ERA

ing them. In the interest of his search he often forgot the
darkness. He then put himself in competition with himself
to see how many times he could find the pins between the regular
visits of the prison keeper. The time which, without aimful
activity, would have dragged painfully on, passed by with a
speed that cut his loneliness to a minimum. "My pin hunting
saved me from despair," he said when released.

Enthusiasm

As well expect to hit the mark with a bullet in a powderless
shell as to make good without enthusiasm. Emerson says,
"Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." To
the worker, enthusiasm is interest; to the religionist, it is fer-
vency; to everybody, it is enjoyment.

Industry

This means "hibitual diligence," with emphasis on the word
habitual. There is a kind of diligence that is an aimful, en-
thusiastic activity, which is so spasmodic that it will not fit into
a scheme of making good. Drudgery-dodging is a bar to making
good. "Genius will work," says Dr. William James, the great
American philosopher, and work that counts in "making good"
is aimful, enthusiastic, persistent activity.

"Making Good" as a Parent

The parents must secure obedience from children and have
no habit of doing for the child what it can profitably do for
itself. It must be said of the parent who is making good as it
was said to Abraham, "You will command your children," i. e.,
obtain their obedience.

Parents who permit the children to rule, fail in making
good as did Eli of old. See I Sam., 3:1-14.

"Making Good' as a Citizen

To make good as a citizen we must have civic aims as to
what the laws shall be and how they shall be administered, we
must be enthusiastic in community prosperity and try to make
our votes count somewhere at every election. We must pay the
price of citizenship by obeying and sustaining the law, never
seeking the nullification of law by the violation of it. Tax
resistance may be resorted to in making good, but tax evasion
never.

"Making Good?' as a Church Member

We make good as Church members by advocating its doc-
trines and recommending the Church by our good conduct
thus carrying out the instructions recorded in Matt. 5:16. We

DOING COMMON THINGS IN AN UNCOMMON WAY 155

make good by keeping up our correspondence with the Lord, by
paying our tithing, and our fast offerings, by attending sacra-
ment meetings, and by standing loyally by Church leaders.
We may know whether we are making good as a Church mem-
ber by comparing the record of any day's Church service with II
Timothy 4:7.

"Making Good?' as ta Leader

We make good in leadership when we have for our chief
aim the getting of others to do their work willingly and well;
by being enthusiastic in leadership and by being habitually dili-
gent in having every subordinate in the line of making good. A
general may consistently and nobly share his meals and bed with
a private, but to do the private's work puts the officer in a posi-
tion of humiliation where he must confess a lack of ability to
get others to do their share. One is making good in leadership
no farther than he keeps in the front with aimful, enthusiastic,
diligent followers near him.

Questions and Problems

1. Why is it impossible to make good by bad methods?

2. Discuss this proposition: Success in a bad cause is a miserable
failure.

3. Name the three essentials to making good.

4. Show the relative rank of the Latter-day Saints under the state-
ment, "The greater the purpose, the greater the people."

5. Give illustrations of the truth: The greater the power to follow
a purpose, the higher the intelligence.

6. Discuss Emerson's statement concerning enthusiasm and achieve-
ment.

7. What are the requirements for making good as a parent?

8. When is a person making good as a citizen?

9. What must be done in order to make good as a Church member?
10. When is a person making good as a leader?

The Book Of Mormon

(Selections from the Journal of Discourses, by former Leaders of the

Church)

"The Book of Mormon came to Ephraim, for Joseph Smith
was a pure Ephraimite, and the Book of Mormon was revealed
to him."— Brigham Young, April 8, 1855; Vol. 2, p. 269.

"Do you remember the history of the Gadiantons, as told in
the Book of Mormon? We are surrounded by their descendants.

156 IMPROVEMENT ERA

[The Indians.] Those loathsome, effeminate specimens of
humanity, which we daily see in our midst, are their children,
low, degraded, sunken to the lowest depths of human existence.
We have our location amid their strongholds, where the ruins
of their cities, towns, and fortifications are yet to be seen — they
continue unto this day." — Edward Hunter, April 6, 1853, Vol. 2,
p. 37.

"No man can say that this book (laying his hand on the
Bible) is true, is the word of the Lord, is the way, is the guide-
board in the path, and a charter by which we may learn the will
of God; and at the same time say, that the Book of Mormon is
untrue; if he has had the privilege of reading it, or of hearing
it read, and learning its doctrines. There is not a person on the
face of the earth who has had the privilege of learning the gos-
pel of Jesus Christ from these two books, who can say that one
is true, and the other is false." — Brigham Young, Vol. I, p. 38.

" 'Adam, fell that man might be.' Adam saw this, that the
woman was overcome by the devil speaking through the ser-
pent ; and when he saw it, he was satisfied that the woman would
have to be banished from his presence; he saw, also, that unless
he partook of the forbidden fruit, he could never raise up pos-
terity ; therefore the truth of that saying in the Book of Mormon
is apparent, that 'Adam fell that man might be.' He saw it
was necessary that he should with her partake of sorrow^ and
death and the varied effects of the fall, that he and she might
be redeemed from these effects, and be restored back again to the
presence of God."— Orson Pmtt, Vol. 1, p. 285, July 25, 1852.

"What is the use of the book in question auyhow? Why,
in the first place, it differs in its history from the Bible. The
Bible is a history of things that took place in Asia principally,
and a little of what took place in Europe and Africa. The Book
of Mormon is a history of things in another hemisphere * *
Could the rulers of nations realize that fact, and could they
only have a copy in their libraries at the cost of $100,000, they
would appropriate it for the history of the western hemisphere.
* * * It is as important in its history as the Bible, and it is
just as interesting and as necessary for men to get an under-
standing of the ancient history of A.merica, as it is for them to
get a understanding of the history of Asia." — Parley P. Pratt,
Vol. I, p 304; July 10, 1853.

Are You Honest?

By Ernest D. Partridge, Brighton Young University

(Author's Note: The question at the head of this article is supposed to
cause the reader to look honestly into his own heart and see what beliefs
are there; and to see what are his habits in regards to his transactions sim-
ilar to the one recorded below. He then is auvised to measure his beliefs
and habits by the rule stated at the end of the article to see how' correct
he is. The article relates an actual experience. The amount involved is only
five cents but the principle is the same as if it had been a thousand dollars.)

The publisher's supply to a certain text on drafing had
become exhausted. No copies could be obtained from whole-
salers or jobbers. The books became very much sought after.
The publisher's price was 25 cents per copy, but the sudden
scarcity had sent the price soaring, 1 advertised lor used texts.
A few were obtained from 50 to 75 cents per copy. The supply
was far below the demand and books were eagerly sought by
members of the class.

One morning a young man came into the room with a
used copy of our text for sale. I paid him 25 cents for it — the
price he had asked. Immediately a member of the class came
and offered me 50 cents for the book. I told him I would not
take 50 cents but I would take 30 cents for it. He was sur-
prised— almost dazed at my remark, but paid 30 cents and left
with his prize.

Either thoughtlessly, or intentionally, I am not sure which,
I had made the remark about my selling price so loudly that the
whole class heard it. Every one stopped work and looked my
way. I despise profiteers, and thought I, "here is a splendid
opportunity to show my attitude upon the matter." Meanwhile,
I mentally patted myself on the back and thought, "What
a good boy am I!" Some of the students said plainly by the
looks upon their faces, "You chump," others looked — "The 'prof
is playing for compiments " Still others tapped their head
with their fingjers, . indicating their belief there was some-
thing wrong with my upper story. All these made me feel that
I had performed a wonderfully honest and upright act. My
shoulders moved backward. My chest moved upward and out-
ward. My head raised to an almost uncomfortable attitude,
rolled a little to one side and became stationary.

Two students came up to my desk and asked if I meant it,
or if I were just "kidding " "I mean it," I said, "this profiteer-
ing business which is becoming so prominent in the world is a
disgrace to the race, and every opportunity to uproot it should

158 IMPROVEMENT ERA

be made use of. I am going to do all I can to stop it." (Boast-
ing, you see.) The students went back to their work, and the
incident was forgotten by all — except myself.

For a few seconds 1 sat gazing out of the window. Presently
the muscles of my eyes began to tighten. The object of my
gaze seemed to recede slowly into the distance, until my sight
rested upon "Old Timp." But my mind was not there, my
thoughts were about as follows: "How much did you make
in that transaction?" — "Five cents."

"What percent gain was that?" "Twenty percent."

"What would be the gain per minute at that rate?" "100%."

One hundred percent, per minute.

I had considered almost as a robber one who would ask
10% per annum. My shoulders relaxed; my chest dropped;
my head pivoted back straight, then slowly drooped until my
eyes rested upon a piece of paper which was lying upon my
desk. I seized my pencil and rapidly made the following nota-
tions: Assuming that I could have invested the money as fast
as it came in — 100% per minute, 600% per hour, 144,000%
per day, 4,320,000% per month or 51,840,000% per annum.
Talk about profiteers!

I confess that for some minutes my mind was swamped
with questions and answers of many kinds. In fact, I think I
can say that for several days my thoughts were completely
"scrambled" upon this matter of buying and selling for profit.
I could have given the "nickel" back to the buyer, of course,
Or I could have given it to the seller. I would have gladly
given a nickle to both if thereby my mind could be relieved
upon the matter of honesty. But it could not have been re-
lieved without the correct solution of the whole transaction. I
knew that a commission merchant could not live if he returned
all his profits. I studied the matter over and over in my mind.
I asked myself, "Was there, then, no virtue in what I did?"

It was some time before I found the correct solution, but I
found it; and I am sure that all commission merchants, sales-
men, canvassers, horse-traders, etc., will do well to consider it
seriously. It is not anything new in itself, but it ought to bring
new thought and new action to all who have dealings with their
fellow men. It is just His word in a different form; it is:

"So deal that you would be willing to be either party to the
transaction"

So in my experience related to this article, I am sure that
under the existing conditions, I would have been willing to be
at either end of the transaction, but — I am, very thankful that I
didn't accept more than thirty cents for the text.
Provo, Utah.

A Call to Repentance

By Elder B. H. Roberts*, of tlie First Council of Seventy, and President of the

Eastern States Mission

This certainly is a very great surprise to me. I think none of
the presidents of missions, or any member of the First Council of
Seventy, ever expect that they will be called upon the first day of the
conference to take up any portion of the time. It may take a moment
or two for me to get over my astonishment, and to begin thinking
about what I may say to you on this occasion. However, very much
of that great theme upon which our president has been speaking this
morning deals with matters that are very important and of which I
have thought much of late.

I have been very greatly impressed during the last few months,
while trying to deliver the message of our Church to the world, with
the importance of the message that we have, not only for individuals,
but for our nation. Of course our message is primarily to individuals;
it is a call to repentance for men individually ; a call to repent of their
sins, and, through the ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ, obtain
remission of their sins, and be born again into fellowship with God.
Our effort is to bring the lives of men into union with the spirit life
of God, and thus become spiritually alive; and this message of the
gospel is unto all those who have not received it.

But also, it is foreshadowed in that great prophecy, of which so-
called "Mormonism" is a fulfilment, that this message is to be de-
livered to every nation and kindred and tongue and people ; and 1
believe to nations as such. And especially is this so with reference to
the Gentile nations of this new world — the two great continents of
America. And again is this especially so with that great Gentile na-
tion known as the United States of America, which, because of its
influence and of its power, dominates the new world, and, in my
judgment, always will.

The Lord made certain promises in ancient times concerning the
land of Zion — North and South America. We are told in the book
of Ether that when the floods receded from this land, it became a
choice land unto the Lord, a land which he would dedicate to free-
dom, and hence, to free institutions, and unto a righteous people. That
is the information we get from our Book of Mormon. And later on,
in the history of this book, we get further information as to the de-
crees of God concerning this land. As follows, for instance :

"And, he had sworn in his wrath unto the brother of Jared that whoso
should possess this land of promise, from that time henceforth and for-
ever, should serve him, the true and only God, or they should be swept
off when the fulness of his wrath should come upon them."

*Delivered at the Semi-Annual Conference, Oct. 1922.

160 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Now, mark you this :

"And now we can behold the decrees of God concerning this land,
that it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall
serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall
come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when
they are ripened in iniquity.

"For behold this is a land which is choice above all other lands; where-
fore he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall be swept off; for it is
the everlasting decree of God. And it is not until the fulness of in-
iquity among the children of the land, that they are swept off.

"And this cometh unto you, O ye Gentiles, that ye may know the
decrees of God — that ye may repent, and not continue in your iniquities
until the fulness come, that ye may not bring down the fulness of the wrath
of God upon you as the inhabitants of the land have hitherto done.

"Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it
shall be free from bondage and from captivity, and from all other nations
under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus
Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written."

I think that is rather an important message, national in its scope
and spirit, and awful in its warning; and I believe that the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is under obligation to lay emphasis
upon this part of its mission. Knowing the decrees of God concern-
ing the fate of the nation that shall depart from God, and fill up the
measure of its iniquity, would it not be a great sin of omission if we
did not make proclamation of the decrees of God concerning this land?

In the fore part of the Book of Mormon — in the writings of
Nephi, there is a message similar in importance. It is in Second Ne-
phi — the first chapter, as I now remember it ; and it there describes
in effect, the rise of a great Gentile nation that shall be used as an
instrument in the hands of God in restoring Israel unto their pos-
sessions in this land. There is no escaping the inference that there
is held in the mind of the prophet the nation of the United States, and
that it should become as a nursing father and mother to the remnants
of Israel in this land, and should be instrumental in bringing to pass,
in a large way, the will of God with reference to the accomplishment
of his purposes in the land. In other words, it is quite clear from the
Book of Mormon, that God has designed to bless the Gentile nations
upon this land of Zion, if only they will be true to him and to the
great principles of righteousness that enter into the very attributes
of God. And, on the other hand, dire calamity is predicted upon the
proud Gentile nation in this land if it fails God as an instrument in
the accomplishment of his high purposes. Lehi says:

"Notwithstanding our afflictions, we have obtained a land of prom-
ise— " (referring to America) — "a land which is choice above all other
lands; a land which the Lord God hath covenanted with me should be a
land for the inheritance of my seed. * * * Wherefore, I Lehi proph-
esy according to the workings of the Spirit which is in me, that there
shall none come into this land save they shall be brought by the hand of
the Lord. Wherefore, this land is consecrated unto him whom he shall
bring. And if it so be that they shall serve him according to the com-

A CALL TO REPENTANCE 161

mandments which he hath given, it shall be a land of liberty unto them;
wherefore, they shall never be brought down into captivity; if so, it shall
be because of iniquity; for if iniquity shall abound cursed shall be the
land for their sakes, but unto the righteous it shall be blessed forever."
(II Nephi 1:5, 6, 7).

Referring to the time when the Lord would begin to gather Israel
from their long dispersion from the four parts of the earth, the Lord
says concerning the Gentiles:

"And the nations of the Gentiles shall be great in the eyes of me,
saith God, in carrying them forth to the lands of their inheritance.

"Yea, the kings of the Gentiles shall be nursing fathers unto them,
and their queens shall become nursing mothers; wherefore, the promises
of the Lord are great unto the Gentiles, for he hath spoken it, and who
can dispute?

"But behold, this land, saith God, shall be a land of thine inheritance,
and the Gentiles shall be blessed upon the land

"And this land shall be a land of liberty unto the Gentiles, and there
shall be no kings upon the land, who shall raise up unto the Gentiles.

"And I will fortify this land against all other nations.

"And he that fighteth against Zion shall perish, saith God. * * *
Wherefore, for this cause, that my covenants may be fulfilled which 1
have made unto the children of men, that I will do unto them while they
are in the flesh, I must needs destroy the secret works of darkness, and
of murders, and of abominations.

"Wherefore, he that fighteth against Zion, both Jew and Gentile, both
bond and free, both male and female, shall perish; for they are they who
are the whore of all the earth; for they who are not for me are against
me, saith our God.

"For I will fulfil my promises which I have made unto the children
of men, that I will do unto them while they are in the flesh." (II Nephi
10:9-17.)

In another part of the Book of Mormon are the very words of
the Lord Jesus Christ himself, in relation to this subject — in Third
Nephi, and having in mind more especially the existence of a great
Gentile nation in this land, which shall be given very exalted privileges,
and upon whom shall be bestowed great power for the accomplishment
of God's purposes:

"And blessed are the Gentiles," (said the Savior) "because of their
beilef in me, in and of the Holy Ghost, which witnesses unto them of me
and of the Father.

"Behold, because of their belief in me, saith the Father, and because
of the unbelief of you, O house of Israel, in the latter day, shall the truth
come unto the Gentiles, that the fulness of these things shall be made
known unto them."

All of which was done, of course, in the coming forth of the
dispensation of the fulness of times, in this land of America, and under
the auspices of guaranteed religious liberty, set forth in the constitu-
tion of the United States.

"But wo, saith the Father, unto the unbeliving of the Gentiles — for
notwithstanding they have come forth upon the face of this land, and
have scattered my people, who are of the house of Israel; and my people

162 IMPROVEMENT ERA

who are of the house of Israel have been cast out from among them, and
have been trodden under feet by them;

"And because of the mercies of the Father unto the Gentiles, and
also the judgments of the Father upon my people who are of the house of
Israel, verily, verily, I say unto you, that after all this, and I have caused
my people who are of the house of Israel to be smitten, and to be afflicted,
and to be slain, and to be cast out from among them, and to become hate(\
by them, and to become a hiss and a by-word among them —

"And thus commandeth the Father that I should say unto you: At
that day when the Gentiles shall sin against my gospel and shall be lifted
up in the pride of their hearts above all nations, and above all the people
of the whole earth, and shall be filled with all manner of lyings, and of
deceits, and of mischiefs, and all manner of hypocrisy, and murders, and
priestcrafts, and whoredoms, and of secret abominations; and if they
shall do all those things, and shall reject the fulness of my gospel, behold,
saith the Father, I will bring the fulness of my gospel from among them."

I want to suspend reading the remainder of this passage for a
moment, while I call your attention to the fact that the conditions
here named, as to the Gentile nation in this land, are wonderfully ful-
filled. When this Book of Mormon came forth in 1830, there were
about twelve millions of people in the United States ; now we have
nearly three times that number in the Eastern States Mission alone ;
and in all the United States, we exceed by considerable, a hundred mil-
lions within the borders of continental United States. It was a very
bold prediction to write in a book in 1830, when the United States oc-
cupied practically only the Atlantic seaboard, and the Ohio valley, to
some extent — it was a rather bold prediction to write in a book the
prophesy that this Gentile nation — the United States — would be "ex-
alted above all other nations, and above all the people of the whole
earth." But witness its fulfilment today ! It is true, and this nation,
had in mind when this prediction was sent forth in our modern lan-
guage, was regarded merely as an experiment in government, and no
such future was ever dreamed of for it as is here predicted, and now
fulfilled. And also the other and the sadder part of it ; namely —
that they would not only be lifted up in power above all other nations,
but also they would be filled with all manner of lyings and deceits,
and mischiefs and hypocrisies and murders and priestcrafts and whore-
doms and of secret abominations — "And if they do all these things,
and shall reject my gospel — " and behold, that is what the people of
the United States did when they rejected from habitation among them,
the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and expatriated the
membership thereof, so that they were under the necessity of finding
a refuge in a land, which, at the time our fathers entered it — The
Salt Lake Valley — was no part of the United States of America —
but was Mexican territory.

Listen to this : it is a revelation that we do not often refer to, but
it has some very choice gems in it. It is the "Word and Will of the
Lord to President Brigham Young," given at Winter Quarters, and,
among other things, this was said :

A CALL TO REPENTANCE 163

"Thy brethren have rejected you and your testimony, even the na-
tion that has driven you out ;

"And now cometh the day of their calamity, .even the days of sorrow,
like a woman that is taken in travail; and their sorrow shall be great unless
they speedily repent, yea, very speedily.

"For they killed the prophets, and them that were sent unto them ;
and they have shed innocent blood, which crieth from the ground against
them."

I think our country at that time did not repent of the wrongs
they had done in this and other things, for this proclamation was im-
mediately followed by the war with Mexico, in which at least those
regiments that were selected from western Illinois — one of them at
least, was well nigh wiped out of existence in the war with Mexico ;
and it was about the only disastrous engagement that we had in that
war. Then followed the awful war, between 1861 and 1865, in which,
as I believe, the hand of God severely punished the United States of
America, in fulfilment of the wonderful prediction that was made by
the Prophet Joseph Smith, in relation to the calamities that would
befall the nation. But they rejected the gospel, and that is foreshad-
owed in this Book of Mormon passage, and confirmed in the pas-
sage in the revelation through Brigham Young. And, by the way, in
confirmation also of what President Grant said about the Prophets Jo-
seph and Hyrum sealing their testimony with their blood this revela-
tion has a word on that also. Speaking of the worth of the labors of
the Prophet, how he laid the foundation of it and was faithful :

— "And I took him to myself.

"Many have marveled because of his death; but it was needful that
he should seal his testimony with his blood, that he might be honored and
the wicked might be condemned. Have I not delivered you from your
enemies, only in that I have left a witness of my name?"

Earth must atone ; the nation in which he lived had to atone for
the blood of that just man — Joseph Smith — a prophet — and I wit-
ness to you that our nation did suffer and did atone, as I believe, for
the great crime against human liberty and the work of God, which, as
a nation, they rejected when they expatriated the Latter-day- Saints.

And now having paused to note the fulfilment of this prophetic
part of the Book of Mormon passage, let us note what follows. "I will
bring the fulness of my gospel from among them," were the last words
I read in the passage which I suspended reading. And now, contin-
uing:

"And then will I remember my covenant which I have made unto my
people, O house of Israel, and I will bring my gospel unto them,

"And I will show unto thee, O house of Israel, that the Gentiles shall
not have power over you; but I will remember my covenant unto you, O
house of Israel, and ye shall come unto the knowledge of the fulness of
my gospel.

"But if the Gentiles will repent, and return unto me, saith the Father,
behold they shall be numbered among my people, O house of Israel."

Notwithstanding the list of their abominations — great as it is —

164 IMPROVEMENT ERA

notwithstanding their rejection of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the
people of God, yet, if they will but repent, God promises to renew their
lot and their part in the glories of this great Latter-day work.

Shall we not, then, proclaim to our nation and to all the inhab-
itants thereof this glorious promise that is held out of the Lord unto
them ? And the fact that we have eight missions established within the
boundaries of the United States, and are laboring with all diligence
to make proclamation of the Gospel — is it not good evidence that God
is willing that we should continue our labors among the people of
the United States to bring them to repentance, and to a participation
in these great purposes and1 designs of God, in relation to this land of
Zion and the work He designs to bring to pass upon it ?

I continue the passage :

"But if the Gentiles will repent and return unto me, saith the Father,
behold they, shall be numbered among my people, O house of Israel.

"And I will not suffer my people, who are of the house of Israel, to
go through among them, and tread them down, saith the Father.

"But if they will not turn unto me and hearken unto my voice — "

Then he will suffer his people to go through them to destroy
them, and so following. I should be pleased to read still other words
of the Lord Jesus Christ to the same effect. I have read from the
16th chapter of Third Nephi. In the 20th chapter all this is practi-
cally repeated and much more added, and in these latter passages em-
phasis is laid- upon the fact that if the Gentiles on the land of Zion
will repent and return unto the Lord, behold his mercies shall be
extended to them, and they shall inherit the promises of God and
have lot and part in the glory and peace and liberty and prosperity that
God designs to bring forth upon the land of Zion.

This, then, is what I think constitutes the national phase of our
mission to the United States — to make proclamation unto the inhab-
itants of all the land that these are their opportunities and their bless-
ings if only they will extend their hands and receive them. And, on
the other hand,. woe be unto them if they hearken not unto the mes-
sage of God, after all His great mercies unto them.

I should have been pleased, could time possibly have been had,
to present to you the full indictment, the indictment that is being
made against the United States for the lawlessness of its people, the
increase of crime during the last twenty years especially, and espe-
cially those crimes of violence that end in murder, in its various de-
grees. In these higher crimes the United States of America is the
most criminal nation on earth today. I must be permitted to give at
least a little evidence to this statement. On August 10, 1922, there
was published in Current History, for September, a Report of the Spe-
cial Commission of Law Enforcement, made at a meeting of the Amer-
ican Bar Association at San Francisco, from which I quote the fol-
lowing:

"From all the data and opinions of experts which your committee
has been able to gather, we beg leave to report that — particularly since

A CALL TO REPENTANCE 165

1890 — there has been, and continues, a widening, deepening tide of law-
lessness in this country, sometimes momentarily receding, to swell again
into greater depth and intensity. At intervals this tide billows into waves
that rise and break but only for a time attracting public attention. * * *
The criminal situation in the United States, so far as crimes of violence
are concerned, is v/orse than that in any other civilized country. Here
there is less respect for law. While your committee cannot obtain the
exact figures, from all available sources of information w,e estimate that
there were more than 9,500 unlawful homicides last year in this country;
that in 1920 there occurred not less than 9,000 such homicides, and thr.t
in no year during the last ten years did the number fall below 8,500. In
other words, during the last ten years, no less than 85.000 of our citizens
have perished by poison, by the pistol or the knife, or by some other un-
lawful and deadly instrument. Burglaries have increased in this country
during the past ten years 1,200 per cent.

"We deem it important to note the material difference between the
character of crime ,onditions prevailing here and those abroad. Our re-
gretable eminence is due in most part to crimes of violence against the
person and propertv. In 1910, out of the 58,800 confined in our State and
Federal prisons, 15,316, or more than 25 per cent of all prisoners, had com-
mitted homicides. While of course this number includes the accumulation
of years, this awful fact still bears its own significance. The evidence be-
fore us shows that there has been since 1910 a steady and terrible in-
crease not only in homicides, but also in burglaries and robberies. One
State has in its different prisons 3,547 inmates; of these 1,429 are guilty
of taking the lives of human beings. * * * Crime and lawlessness in
the United States have been steadily on the increase and out ol propor-
tion to our growth, and there has been a steady and growing disrespect for
law. In our opinion this is not a result of the war. We do not find the
proportional increase in crime from 1916 to 1922 greater than from 1910
to 1916, and we have not been able to discover that crimes of violence
have materially increased in France, England or Canada during or since
the war, although the effects of the war naturally must be more marked
in those countries."

In the face of these conditions, of the truth of which there can
be no question — is it not necessary to sound this note of warning
against lawlessness throughout the United States? I am happy in
the thought that the President of our Church — God's prophet in the
earth — in his opening remarks this morning put his finger upon the one
great fact and uttered a warning that ought to be stressed — a warn-
ing against the lawlessness that obtains throughout our country. It is
fitting that his voice should sound the key-note of warning, because
that is what God would have the people of the United States warned
of — the wickedness that exists among them, and the calamity that
will follow if they do not repent.

I bear witness to you, from my heart, that the inspiration of God
has dictated to our President the Key-note words of warning in this
conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. _ May
we sense the responsibility resting upon us as a great missionary
Church in the earth, charged with the solemn duty of calling men to
repentance, and warning nations against the fate that awaits the na-
tion that lapses into lawlessness, crime, and unrighteousness ; for God,
in these things will not be mocked. May we sense our duty and re-
sponsibility is my prayer in the name of Jesus. Amen.

In the Light of History*

By Elder Jomes E. Talmage, of the Council of the Twelve

I think it well for us at times to look at ourselves and take stock
to determine what we are, and this both as individuals and as an or-
ganization. We may need a mirror to show just how we look as in-
dividuals, and I pray you if you use one, be sure that it is a right mirror,
unwarped, and that your eyes be clear, that we may see ourselves as
we are. And it is well to look at the Church, not that we need sep-
arate ourselves from it for the occasion, but to look at it impartially
and get its proper perspective in relation to other organizations.

A PANORAMIC VIEW OF SOME ESSENTIAL POINTS IN CHURCH HISTORY

If it were possible to show by means of panorama or the mov-
ing picture, the essential points connected with the history of the
Church of Jesus Christ, going back no farther than the apostolic dis-
pensation of old, we would see first a scene of wondrous activity and
sacrifice. The apostles, who had been ordained under the hands of
Jesus Christ, and those who had been called into the council of the
apostles afterward, and the seventies who had been marshaled for their
work, and the bishops and the elders and the priests, teachers and dea-
cons— these we see at work, going amongst the people and spreading
the gospel, spreading it so thoroughly that Paul was able to say in
his day that practically every soul had heard it, by which I under-
stand that he meant that every soul had had a chance to hear of it, to
learn something about it. As the scene changes we see there many
others who followed in the footsteps of the apostles, so far as their
energy and devotion and authority to labor was concerned. Then we
see confusion coming into the Church, partly because of oppression
and almost indescribable persecution from without, partly because of
the threatening disruption from within.

THE GREAT APOSTASY

There was an apostasy, and a great one, not the first one by any
means in the history of mankind, but a great falling away, an apostasy
of individuals from the Church in countless numbers, and then the
apostasy of the so-called church itself, turning away from the ways that
had been laid down as the government of the church, corrupting the
ordinances established by divine authority, pandering to the so-called
philosophy of the day, introducing the elements of paganism and
heathenism to make their worship more spectacular and more attractive,
until we see as we look at the changing scene, that there is only the
outward form of godliness and not one flash to tell us of the power
thereof.

•Delivered at the Senii-Annual Conference, Oct. 1922.

IN THE LIGHT OF HISTORY 167

THE PERIOD OF SPIRITUAL DARKNESS

Then as tne panorama moves, comes the period of darkness,
spiritual and mental. For, mark you, the mind is an attribute of the
spirit; and as spiritual powers dwindled, mentality became deficient
and the dark ages loomed. The sombre cloud failed to arouse faith
and trust, but deepened the gloom of unbelief. We see people strug-
gling in the midst of darkness trying to get out of the jungle. Men
were sent unto them to help, men of God, seeking to lead them back
into the light, to some extent, but they had a hard time. The Church
had become apostate and tyrannical. It had undertaken to rule by
autocratic methods. It claimed the right to tell men what to do and to
force them to do it on penalty of loss of life or limb, and the con-
fiscation of their goods. It undertook to dictate unto nations, unto
kings, what they should do, and professed to absolve subjects from all
allegiance to their rulers if the rulers failed to obey the behest of the
church so-called.

THE LIGHT OF GOD IN THE RESTORATION

The centuries passed and by and by a light appeared ; a glorious il-
lumination broke forth ; and the word of God was heard again, for
God the Eternal Father — I speak it without reservation or modifica-
tion— that Being after whom we have been formed in physical, mental
and spiritual image, did appear upon the earth unto the lad Joseph
Smith. And with the Eternal Father stood the only Son whom he
had begotten in the flesh, Jesus the Christ, who affirmed that the
authority and power to speak and to act in the name of God was not
at that time upon the earth. Then followed the promise that it should
be restored and in time, even as the prophets of old had foreseen, angels
came to earth ministering unto those who had been chosen, and be-
stowing upon them by the same outward ordinance as was observed
of old, by the laying on of hands, the power and the authority not
only to speak but to act in the name of the living God, according to
the order set forth.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has not sprung
from any "mother church." The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints is no sect; it owes no allegiance to any other religious so-
ciety, call it by the name of church or what you will, on the face of
the earth. It does not claim to possess the Holy Priesthood by direct
and uninterrupted descent from Peter of old, but it does claim that
Peter, accompanied by his associates James and John, the three who
constituted the presidency in the organization of the apostolate of old,
did come by instruction of the Lord and did confer upon men here
upon the earth the authority they possessed and which they exercised
in the flesh before their martyrdom. We speak that plainly. I know
it shocks the ears of some who may not have prepared themselves to
receive it ; and yet, wherein is the inconsistency ? We proclaim the
fact and also proclaim that the apostasy was a reality; and others

168 IMPROVEMENT ERA

admit it, theologians, scholarly men, and even churches. Though you
have heard it before, I wish to draw your attention to that solemn
declaration by the chief of the Protestant churches, the Church of
England, made soon after the time of its creation — for it was created
by act of Parliament. But there were wise men and good men num-
bered in the organization, and that church declared, about the mid-
dle of the sixteenth century, in its homily on the peril of idolatry, as
follows :

"Laity and clergy, learned and unlearned, all ages, sects, and degrees
of men, women, and children of whole Christendom — an horrible and most
dreadful thing to think — have been at once drowned in abominable idolatry;
of all other vices most detested of God, and most damnable to man; and
that by the space of eight hundred years and more."

THE CHURCH OF GOD ESTABLISHED ANEW

That, I take it, is good testimony as to the actuality of the apos-
tasy. We proclaim the restoration which the prophets of old said
should follow the apostasy. The Church of Jesus Christ has been
established upon the earth anew, through the instrumentality of Joseph
Smith the Prophet and his immediate associates in the ministry. It is
the Church of Jesus Christ brought to earth again, established anew as
had been predicted, I repeat; and its mission is the preparation of the
earth for the great consummation, the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

In this restored church has been placed, by divine ministration
and ordinance, the authority of the Lesser and of the Greater — or of
the Aaronic and of the Melchizedek Priesthoods, with the several of-
fices thereof and the several duties, responsibilities and powers per-
taining to each office as of old.

THE NEW AND EVERLASTING COVENANT

That it was and is something new, and yet something old, as it
is in fact eternal, was set forth by the Lord in a revelation given in
April, 1830, just after the organization of the Church. There were
people who had joined other churches. Many of them had been
and were devout. They had been baptized, some of them by sprinkling
and some of them by pouring, but they called it baptism, and some of
them' by immersion ; and they raised the question as to whether they
could not become members of this Church now by application and
profession of faith alone, affirming that it was unjust that they should
be required to be baptized again. In this claim they plainly forgot
that the outward form of baptism can be performed by anybody, but
that baptism as an ordinance acceptable unto the Lord requires the
power and the authority of the Priesthood which he has given. There-
fore the Lord said:

"Behold, I say unto you that all old covenants have I caused to be
done away in this thing; and this is a new and an everlasting covenant,
even that Which was from the beginning.

"Wherefore, although a man should be baptized an hundred times it
availeth him nothing, for you cannot enter in at the strait gate by the
law of Moses, neither by your dead works.

In the LIGHT OF HISTORY 169

"For it is because of your dead works that I have caused this last
covenant and this Church to be built up unto me, even as in da}s of old.
"Wherefore, enter y.e in at the gate, as I have commanded."

I have read from Section 22 of the Doctrine and Covenants. Isn't
that in line with the declaration our Lord made while he talked in the
flesh, even the Christ, known as Jesus of Nazareth, who was ac-
knowledged as a marvelous prophet whose teachings were full of wis-
dom? On one occasion, amidst circumstances which the rest of the
chapter will give unto you, he spoke these words recorded in the
9th Chapter of Matthew, beginning with the sixteenth verse :

"No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that
which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made
worse.

"Neither do men put new wine into old bottles ; else the bottles break, and
the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish; but they put new wine into new
bottles, and both are preserved."

The Judaism of that day was a travesty on the law that God had
given. Many believed in part of what Christ said, but they wanted to
tack it on to the Judaism of the day ; they wanted to make the word of
God conform to their philosophy, or with their sophistry, or with their
man-made precepts, and the Lord warned them : Do not put a new
piece of cloth on the old garment, it will tear it away and make a
more hideous rent than there was before. Do not put that newly
fermenting juice into old leathern bags, for that was the nature of
the bottles of that day. You know how quickly old leather breaks.
Don't put it into such bottles, for the fermentation will burst the bot-
tles and the good wine will be lost and the bottles will be entirely
ruined. There was to be no compromise with the semi-pagan doctrines
of the day, nor was there to be any compromise between the principles of
the gospel of Christ and the teachings of men not conforming there-
with, the doctrines of men that have been evolved in the minds of
men without the inspiration of the Holy Spirit — no compromise !

THIS CHURCH LED BY REVELATION AND INSPIRATION FROM HEAVEN

We are tolerant, tolerant in the extreme. We grant unto every
man the right to worship after his own conscience, even as we claim it ;
but we do not compromise by the acceptance of the views of men in
an attempt to mingle them with the doctrine of Christ, and call it all
the word of God. The Lord has spoken and is speaking. I bear
you solemn testimony that ever since the reestablishment of the Church
in 1830, this Church of Jesus Christ has been led by inspiration and
revelation from the heavens. This is the day in which you witness
such. The Lord is not leaving his Church to itself. He is speaking
in the ways best known to him, and inspiring and leading those whom
you sustain as your leaders. Follow them and be safe. May the Lord
be with us in carrying out the determination for a better life which
we have formed in this conference, I pray, in the name of Jesus
Christ. Amen.

God's Dealings with Mankind

By President Anthony W. Ivins

I sincerely desire, my brethren and sisters, during the few mo-
ments which I may occupy tlrs morning, of the time which is allotted
to us, that I may be sustained by your faith and prayers. I feel my
dependence upon the Lord, possibly as I have never felt it before, be-
cause the older I become, the greater my experience, the more I come to
realize that the power of God, our Father, alone can make us strong.

THE CREATION

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."

If the chronology of the Bible is correct — and I know of none
better — nearly six thousand years have elapsed since the declaration
which I have read was made, and which is the first paragraph from
the book of Genesis. It will be observed that this statement, like all
others made by the Lord, is a definite, abstract declaration of fact.
It is not stated as a theory, a thing which may or may not have been,
depending upon the opinions of man for proof.

God created man in his own image, in the image of God created
he him, male and female created he them, and said unto them be fruit-
ful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and have
dominion over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

The story of the creation of man, and the purpose for which he
was placed upon the earth, is told, not in its fullest detail, of course,
in the brief scripture from which I have quoted. Of the story of
man during the Adamic dispensation, we know but little. The his-
tory of one thousand five hundred years and more is told in the Bible
on ten short pages, and modern revelation gives us but brief account
of the happenings between the creation and the deluge.

MAN GOVERNED BY CONTRARY POWERS

This much, however, is made clear to us : That from the earliest
period of his existence until the present man has lived a dual life,
has been governed by one ;of two influences, each diametrically op-
posed to the other. From the beginning these two powers have striven
for the mastery, one leading men on to higher ideals, teaching faith,
hope, charity, 'patience, love, self sacrifice, humility, righteousness and
justice. The other leading men away from these divine ideals, teach-
ing selfishness, personal ambition, love of power, disregard for virtue,
chastity, equality and self sacrifice.

One teaching that man is the offspring of Deity, created in the
image of God, and placed upon the earth endowed with intelligence
to discern between good and evil, between right and wrong, and that
the Creator would hold him responsible for the use he made of the
agency which had been bestowed upon him. The other teaching that

*Delivered at the Semi-Annual Conference, Oct. 1922.

GOD'S DEALINGS WITH MANKIND 171

man is responsible to no power other than that which he himself has
created, and that his future state is not influenced by, nor dependent
upon, allegiance to, or acknowledgment of a supreme being. These two
influences were manifested soon after our first parents were placed
upon earth.

From God, our Father, through his Only Begotten Son, came
teachings which, if adhered to, would lead man back into the pres-
ence of the Father, and redeem him from the transgression into which
he had fallen, because he had listened to Lucifer, a son of the morn-
ing, who had rebelled against God, and because of his rebellion had
been cast down with his angels, banished from the presence of the
Father, and had become Perdit'on, destined to fight against God, to
be the father of lies, and the enemy of all that is good.

Notwithstanding the fact that the Father talked with Adam, mak-
ing plain to him that he would provide, through his Only Begotten
Son, a Savior, and means by which redemption would come to his
posterity, as the people multiplied they refused to listen to his teach-
ings, and came to love Satan more than God. <,

ENOCH SENT TO CALL THE PEOPLE TO REPENTANCE

Before the birth of Seth, who was 'obedient to the teachings of
his father, Adam, and became a preacher of righteousness, the peo-
ple had become sensual and devilish. Cain had learned, through the
teachings of Satan, 'that by taking the life of his brother Abel he
could become possessed of his flocks and herds, he had been taught
that by combining in oath-bound societies power could be obtained by
the shedding of blood, and war and bloodshed prevailed among the
people.

At this time the Lord sent Enoch to call the people to repentance,
and he 'went forth testifying to the redemption which would come in
the meridian of time, through the atonement which was to be made
by the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh, but they refused to
listen, and so great 'was their opposition to Enoch, and enmity toward
those who accepted his word, that it became necessary for the Lord
to take them from the earth.

iTHE PROPHECIES AND WORK OF NOAH

Again the Lord sent his prophet to warn the people, and rescue
them from the power of Satan, who held them in 'bondage. Noah, who
was the son of Lamech, who was the son of Methuselah, who was
the son of Enoch, went among the people (prophesying that except
they renounced their -allegiance to Satan, and returned to the Lord
they would be utterly destroyed. Again the message fell upon deaf
ears, only Noah and his sons, and their families being saved when the
windows of heaven were opened, iand the floods covered the earth.

Thus the first effort made by the Lord to teach his children the
plan by which they might be redeemed, and brought back into his
presence, had' failed, so far as the great majority was concerned, one

172 IMPROVEMENT ERA

thousand five hundred and fifty years after they had been placed
upon the earth.

After having witnessed this great manifestation of the power )oi
God, and the result which is inevitable to those who follow after
Satan, for he sooner or later leads people to death, ione would think
that the lesson would always be remembered. Noah and his sons
went out from the ark humbled and convinced, for they had witnessed
the destruction of their race, but the lesson was soon forgotten. Two
hundred and fourteen years after the ark rested on jMount Ararat
the people were again traveling in the broad road which leads to
destruction. They had again turned from the worship of the true
God to the worship of idols.

THE CALLING OF ABRAHAM AND THE RISE OF ISRAEL

At this time there occurred an event which was to have a more
direct effect upon you and me than any which had hitherto transpired.
From his home in Chaldea the Lord called Abraham, and taking him
up into Palestine entered into covenant with him, that notwithstand-
ing the fact that he was a childless man, he would make his posterity
innumerable, and would give Palestine to him and his children for an
everlasting inheritance, and that through him all of the nations of the
earth would be blessed.

In fulfilment of the word of the Lord Isaac was born to Abraham
and Sarah, and he became the father of Jacob, who was the father
of the twelve patriarchs, the founders of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Again the keys of the Priesthood were conferred upon men, again
the prophets declared the great plan of human redemption, again the
law of sacrifice was restored by which the people were taught that an
infinite sacrifice would be provided, by which they were to be re-
deemed from death, because He who was to come would be the first
fruits of the resurrection from the dead.

At one time it appeared that the word of the Lord would not
be fulfilled, for Israel left Palestine, and went into Egypt, where for
a period of more than two hundred years, the greater part of the
time in servitude, they adopted the customs and idolatrous worship of
the Egyptians, But the purposes of the Lord were not to be frus-
trated, and he called his servant Moses who led Israel out from the
Egyptian bondage, and back to the promised land, the land which the
Lord had given to their father Abraham to be an everlasting in-
heritance.

ISRAEL, UNDER DAVID AND SOLOMON, A DOMINANT NATION

The Lord again showered blessings upon the people, until under
David and Solomon, their prophet kings, they became one of the
dominant nations of the world.

During the Israelitish period the Lord again raised up prophets
who testified, as prophets had testified in earlier dispensations, that
the Lord would send, through the lineage of Davicl, the Messiah,

GOD'S DEALINGS WITH MANKIND 173

who would be the Redeemer of the world. Isaiah prophesied that a
virgin would conceive and bear a Son, whose name should be called
Immanuel, and that he would take away the sins of the world.

The time had come when the Lord was again to offer redemption
to the people, when another gospel dispensation was to be ushered in,
the effect of which would be of greater importance than any which
had gone before, or would follow after. The appearance of prophets,
warning the people to turn from the service of Satan, and serve the
Lord, was not its outstanding feature. The Lord himself, in . the
person of his Only Begotten Son, was to come to earth, that through
him unconditional redemption from death might be wrought out for
all mankind, and forgiveness for personal sin assured through obe-
dience to the doctrines of the gospel which he would teach.

The Jewish people, blinded by the teachings of men, because of
their prejudices, their traditions, their pride and faithlessness, failed
to recognize in Jesus Christ, Shiloh, to whose coming they had long
looked forward, influenced as they were by Satan rather than by the
Lord, as generations before them had been.

THE COMING AND THE MISSION OF CHRIST

In vain the Redeemer pleaded with them, in vain he wept as he
gazed upon the holy city, and contemplated the ruin which must in-
evitably come. In vain he warned the people of the consequences
which would follow rejection of his word. The power of the Almighty
which was manifested in his works, the love of God exemplified in
his ministry, none of these things could move hearts made adamant
by the power of the evil one.

Christ was persecuted, ridiculed, his message rejected, and finally
he was put to death by the most ignominious process known to man,
and that by his own people whom he had come to redeem. In part
his mission had failed, but the great purpose of his coming had been
accomplished, for the bands of death had been broken, the prison
doors had been opened and the captives set free, death could no
longer forever hold captive the spirits of men.

CHRIST REJECTED BY THE JEWS

The Church which Christ and his disciples established struggled
heroically for existence, but the evil one so dominated the minds of
men, persecution was so intense, that the keys and power of the
Priesthood were withdrawn, the ordinances of the gospel changed, un-
til the Lord ceased to recognize the Church as his.

The prophets had foreseen and declared all of these conditions.
They saw the dispersion of Israel, the suffering of the Jewish people,
because of their rejection of the Savior, who had been sent for their
redemption. They looked forward to a time which they all desired
to see, a day when the Lord would set his hand for the last time to
redeem his people, when Satan would be bound, be banished from

174 IMPROVEMENT ERA

the earth, and his power to tempt mankind, and lead them on to
destruction, cease.

A NEW GOSPEL DISPENSATION

It was a period when a new gospel dispensation was to be ushered
in, when the Lord would again offer salvation to the people of the
world, when he would gather in the outcasts of Israel, when he would
prune his vineyard for the last time, restore the keys of his Priest-
hood, and consummate the work which had been commenced in the
beginning. When he would send his Only Begotten Son to earth
again, this time to reign as King of kings, and Lord of lords.

The time, the place, the manner of this restoration were plainly
outlined by the prophets. It was to be in the latter days, the dis-
pensation of the fulness of times ; a time when Satan would rage
in the hearts of the children of men, when men's hearts would fail
because of fear, when there would be war, and rumors of war, when
the sea would heave itself beyond its bounds and the whole earth be
in commotion.

At such a time a light was to break forth among those who sit in
darkness, which light was to be the fulness of the gospel of the Lord
Jesus Christ. This gospel, the Lord himself declared, shall be
preached in all the world, as a witness unto all people, and then shall
the end come.

THE GATHERING FORETOLD

The place to which scattered Israel was to be gathered was plainly
indicated. It was not to be upon the islands of the sea, not upon the
broad plains nor in the open vallies, but in the tops of the mountains,
in a country which had been regarded as a barren waste, where the
desert would be made glad because of those who were to redeem and
convert it into fruitful fields. To such a place people from all na-
tions were to flow, that they might be taught the law of the Lord,
and learn to walk in his paths.

That a work could be inaugurated, having for its purpose the
conquest of sin, the subjugation of Satan, and his final banishment
from the earth, without resistance on his part is not to be expected.
Knowing that the hosts of heaven were being marshaled for the last
great struggle between the powers of light and darkness, of good and
evil, of right and wrong, he has fought, as never before, to defeat
the purposes of the Almighty.

THE PERSONAGE WHO INAUGUARTED THE WORK

When the time came for the opening of the present gospel dis-
pensation, Joseph Smith, who was to be made the instrument through
whom the work would be inaugurated, moved upon by the Spirit of
the Lord, went into the woods to pray. The effort made by Satan
to prevent the accomplishment of the purposes of the Lord, is told by
Joseph Smith as follows:

GOD'S DEALINGS WITH MANKIND 175

"After I had retired to the place where I had previously designed to go,
having Looked around me, and finding myself alone, I kneeled down and began
to offer up the desires of my heart to the Lord. I had scarcely done so
when I was immediately seized upon by some power which entirely overcame
me, and had such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue, so
that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed
to me for a time that I was doomed to sudden destruction. But exerting all
my powers to call upon God, to deliver me out of the power of this enemy
which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was about to sink
into despair, and abandon myself to destruction, not to an imaginary ruin, but
to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such
marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being, just at this moment
of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the bright-
ness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.

"It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy
which held me bound."

THIS RESTORED GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM TO BE PREACHED IN
ALL THE WORLD

This gospel of the kingdom was to be preached in all the world, as
a witness to all people. In 1837 Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde and
others were sent to Great Britain to bear the message of the restoration
to the people of that country, which was to contribute such strength to
the Church. They arrived there on the 20th of July. Converts were
made to the divinity of the mission of Joseph Smith, and a time ap-
pointed when the ordinance of baptism was to be administered to those
who had accepted the truth. Sunday was the day when this or-
dinance was to be solemnized.

EFFORTS OF THE EVIL ONE TO PREVENT THE PURPOSES OF GOD

The efforts put forth by the evil one, to prevent the accomplish-
ment of the purposes of the Lord, on the night before the Sunday in-
dicated, is told by Heber C. Kimball and Orson Hyde, as follows.
Heber C. Kimball says: "Wh-'le I was thus engaged I was struck
with great force, by some invisible power, and fell senseless to the
floor. The first thing I remembered was being supported by Elders
Hyde and Richards, who were praying for me. I then arose and sat
upon the bed, when a vision was opened to our minds, and we could
plainly see the evil spirits who foamed and gnashed their teeth at us.
They came toward us like armies rushing to battle."

Orson Hyde, in a letter written to Heber C. Kimball, at a later
date, says : "Every circumstance which occurred in that scene of
devils is just as fresh in my recollection as it was at the time of its
occurrence. While you were apparently senseless and lifeless upon the
floor, and on the bed, after we had laid you there, I stood between
you and the devils and fought them face to face, until they began to
diminish in number and retreat from the room."

EFFORTS AND METHODS ADOPTED BY THE EVIL ONE TO THIS END

Failing in his endeavor to prevent the restoration of the gospel,
and the organization of the Church, the evil one has concentrated his

176 IMPROVEMENT ERA

efforts to prejudice, by falsehood and misrepresentation, the people
of the world against the truth. Misrepresentation, persecution, in
some instances death, have followed the elders of the Church when-
ever they have gone, and not satisfied with the effort put forth among
the people of the world, Satan has, by every strategy known to him,
endeavored to lead away from the Church those who have entered
into covenant with the Lord that they will serve him, and keep his
commandments. .

The means which he employs for the accomplishment of his pur-
poses, are many and varied. Permit me to read from the Book of
Mormon :

"Wo unto them that turn aside the just for a thing of naught, and revile
against that which is good, and say that it is of np worth ! For thle day shall
come when the Lord God will speedily visit the inhabitants of the earth; and
in that day when they are fully ripe in iniquity they shall perish.

"But behold, if the inhabitants of the earth shall repent, of their wicked-
ness and abominations they shall not be destroyed, saith he Lord of Hosts.
For the kingdom of the devil must shake, and they which belong to it must
needs be stirred up unto repentance, or the devil will grasp them with his
everlasting chains, and they be stirred up to anger against that which is good,
and perish; for behold at that day shall he rage, in. the hearts of the children of
men, and stir them up to anger against that which is good.

"And others he will pacify, and lull them away into carnal security that
they will say: All is well in Zion ; yea, Zion prospereth all is well, and thus
the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell.

"And behold, others he flattereth away, and telleth them there is no hell,
and he sayeth unto them, I am no Devil, for there is none, and thus he whis-
pereth in their ears, until he grasp them with his awful chains, from whence
there is no deliverence."

SUGGESTIONS FROM THE ENEMY OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

Have you, my brethren and sisters, experienced the effect of
these various efforts of the evil one to shatter your faith? Has he
ever wlr'spered in your ear, when you have gone to the Lord in prayer,
that there was no one to hear and answer you? At times when your
prayers have not been answered, as you may have desired, has his
voice whispered to you that it was useless to pray? Has doubt and
uncertainty entered your minds where faith and hope had been be-
fore? Has he attempted, by flattery and praise of the world to per-
suade you that you are great and strong, and do not need the strength
which comes from the Lord? Has he filled your heart with ambition,
thirst for wealth and power, banishing from you the spirit of humility
and self-sacrifice, without which it is impossible to please the Lord?
Has he whispered in your ear that violation of the law of chastity is
not a grave offense, that you may lie a little, steal a little, take ad-
vantage of one because of his words, that you may disregard and vio-
late the law of the land, or the law of the Lord, and be justified?

All such suggestions come from the enemy of righteousness, to
whom I have made reference, and to whose strength and power I
have desired to call your attention in my remarks. If we transforrn.

GOD'S DEALINGS WITH MANKIND 177

the mental pictures which are photographed upon our minds by this
power, into actions, we are in the grasp of Satan, from which only
sincere repentance can rescue us.

HOW SHALL WE FORTIFY AGAINST THESE SHAFTS OF EVIL?

By what process may we be fortified and made impregnable against
these shafts of the enemy? We must put on the armor of righteous-
ness, and keep it constantly bright in the service of the Lord. We
must keep in constant communion with him through prayer.

Prayer is the key which opened this gospel dispensation, it is the
channel through which the Son communed with the Father, through
which Saints were strengthened to endure, and rejoice in persecution,
the gateway through which the repentant sinner may find his wav
back to God.

Are the Latter-day Saints forgetting this obligation which they
owe to the Lord, this one source of strength against the power of
Satan? Are we regular in our family prayers, do we go to the Lord
in secret, and put our trust in him in all of the activities of life? Let
these presidents of stakes, these seventies, bishops, ward teachers and
Church members who are present ask themselves these questions, and
answer them. Let me again read briefly from the Book of Mormon :

"Therefore may God grant unto you, my brethren, that ye may begin to
exercise your faith unto repentance, that ye begin to call upon his holy name,
that he would have mercy upon you.

"Yea, cry unto him for mercy; for he is mighty to save.

"Yea, humble yourselves, and continue in prayer unto him.

"Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea, over all of your flocks.

"Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all our household, both morning,
mid-day, and evening.

"Yea, cry unto him against the power ,of your enemies.

"Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness.

"Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, that ye may prosper in them.

"Cry over the flecks of your fields, that they may increase.

"But this is not all; ye must pour out your souls in your closets, and your
secret places, and in your wilderness.

"Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full,
drawn out in prayer to him continually for your welfare, and also for the
welfare of those who are around you."

My brethren and sisters, these words of the Lord apply to us
today, as they applied to those to whom they were delivered in times
gone by. The power of the evil one is not broken ; he rules the world
today. The lust for power, ambition, selfishness, class distinction,
the hatred of one race toward another, all of these things are inspired
by the same influence which led away our first parents.

HOW WE MAY KNOW THE WILL OF GOD

A person said to me the other day: "What is the use of trying?
The will of the Lord will be done, anyhow."

The trouble, my brethren and sisters, is that the will of the Lord

178 IMPROVEMENT ERA

has never been done, from the beginning to the present, so far as it
applies to the people at large. It was not his will that the people
should perish in the flood. He repeatedly called them to repentance,
and promised that destruction should be stayed, if they would only
return to him.

It was not his will that Israel should be scattered, and the Jewish
people suffer as they have, it was because of their transgression. It
is not his will that turmoil, war and bloodshed prevail in the world
today. These conditions are all because of lack of faith on the part
of the people, and because they refuse to listen to the voice of the
Lord, as it has come to us through his servants, the prophets.

The Lord has repeatedly called the people to repentance, has re-
peatedly said that redemption might come, if they would return to
him, and renounce their allegiance to the evil one. In this dispensa-
tion he has said that Zion might have been redeemed had the faith of
the people been sufficient.

It is true that the Lord has decreed certain definite unchangeable
purposes, and these he will accomplish. How may we know, then,
the will of the Lord, and distinguish between h1's works and those of
Satan? The key is a simple one. Everything which persuades to do
that which is good, is from the Lord. Whatever is evil, and persuades
men to do that which is not good, is from the evil one.

REPENTANCE NECESSARY

Have not we, ourselves, been witnesses of the inevitable results
which come to those who follow after Satan? Never before in mod-
ern times, and I believe not in ancient times either, has the necessity
for repentance been more plainly manifest than in our day.

THE NATIONS HAVE AGAIN REFUSED TO LISTEN TO GOD'S CALL TO PEACE

It was not the will of the Lord that we should become involved in
the greatest war the world has ever known, it is not his will that the
nations are divided and in strife today, that war clouds are again gath-
ering which threaten the peace of the world, and the very existence of
civilization. It is because men refuse to listen to the voice of the
Lord, who is calling them to peace, and good will one toward the
other. Peace can be established at any moment, it could have been
established long ago, if the people of the world would only unite in
a determined effort to prevent war. Ridicule it as you may, make
light of it, oppose it, the fact remains that never in the history of
modern time, has such opportunity been held out to the people for
the establishment of peace, as that which has come in our day.
Humbled, in sorrow and mourning, when the time came that war
might have been forever suppressed, when conditions might have been
established which would have made war impossible, the nations re
fused to listen.

Again they started in the broad road, which leads to destruc-
tion. Again selfishness, pride, love of power, the exalting of one

COD'S DEALINGS WITH MANKIND 179

nation above another, one race above another, menaces the world,
and the civilization which is upon it.

MAY THE TIME SOON COME WHEN THE WORLD WILL TURN FROM

EVIL TO GOOD

God grant that the time may soon come when the people of the
world will learn, from the experiences of the past, which -we seem
slow to profit by, that it rests with them, with us, to turn from all
that leads us away from the teachings of the Redeemer, to turn from
evil to good, lest God's judgment come upon the people of the world,
and they be so humiliated and decimated that there will be none to
offer resistance, when the time of redemption shall finally come.

God bless you, my brethren and sisters, fortify us against the
power of the evil one, make us strong in righteousness and good works,
that we may be accepted of the Lord, and keep our feet planted
firmly in the path which leads back into his presence, I humbly pray,
through Jesus Christ. Amen.

A Prairie Night

Prairie Night!

Above, a million mystic orbs at peace
Yet silverhued amid the velvet blue.

Powdered with cloud-dust, light as fleece,
And the solemn moon shining gently through.

Prairie Night!

Below, a world of calm, save for a lone coyote,
Whose piteous wail speaks solitude and stealth;

And now and then the soft, sweet note
Of some far night bird happy in its wealth.

Prairie Night!

The black lake's ruffled deep
Reflects sky-lights that ever dance and fret

Like fairy feet. Northward the grazing cattle creep
Silent and dim in shifting silhouette.

Prairie Night!

The south wind sighs. And from the shadowy west
Shines faint some cabin's solitary light.

Its white rays lull the senses into rest.
Amid a beauty fathomless — Prairie Night.
Lethbridge, Canada Frank C. Steele

The Church and the Laws of the Land

By Elder Charles W . Nibley, Presiding Bishop of the Church

While I stand before you this afternoon and attempt to address
you, I earnestly desire that the spirit which has characterized our
meetings and the utterances of our speakers may continue with me, and
that I may have that which I need so much, the Spirit of the Lord, so
that the words spoken will be of benefit and service to the work of
the Lord.

I rejoice in the testimonies of the brethren such as have just been
delivered by Elder McMurrin, for I know him to be a faithful servant
of the Lord, one who is desirous of doing and performing the mission
to which he has been called, in an earnest and acceptable manner. And
let me say, the Church is blessed with an abundance of young men,
as well as middle-aged and elderly men, who are just as faithful, just
as earnest, just as devoted, just as certain of their position with re-
spect to the work of the Lord as Elder McMurrin is. We know well
enough that the Lord has established this work, and is bringing to
pass his purposes in connection with it. This is his special work, and
to this Church is given the power and authority to lead the world to
spiritual life, so that our mission really is to teach the people how
they may come from death unto life. For a man may be very much
alive in a temporal way, and yet be spiritually dead.

There are great problems also before our nation, which demand
solution ; they are burning, pressing questions which must be solved, and
which can only be solved on the principles of righteousness. These
principles will help to adjust the jarring, warring, contentious prob-
lems which selfishness very largely produces, and which can only be
solved through the principles that the Lord has revealed. It is not
in man that walks, to guide his steps aright. It is not in man of
his own power to solve these problems, nor can any man do it of
himself alone. It is only by the help of the Spirit of ths Almighty
that will bring us to the point where justice and righteousness can
at least approximately be approached. We have had contentions in
our own nation during the recent months of railroad strikes, coal
strikes, and other contentions that have threatened the very existence
of our government; and also there have grown up in our nation,
secret organizations, combinations of men, no doubt desiring to pro-
tect their own selfish interests, even though those interests should
conflict with the strict principles of justice. Some of these organiza-
tions like the Ku Klux Klan have undertaken to administer what they
call justice, independent of Constitutional law, and the rights of men,
and they have taken the law into their own hands and have dealt with
certain people in a way which can only result in disorder, turmoil,

*Delivered at the Semi-Annual Conference, Oct. 1922.

THE CHURCH AND THE LAW OF THE LAND 181

strife, and in the breaking down of Constitutional law. For these
secret organizations undertake to administer punishment upon men
and women, irrespective of the laws of the land.

It has been the counsel of the leaders of this Church from the
beginning, to observe the Constitutional law of the land, and it is stated
in the revelations that whatsoever is more than this or less than this,
cometh of evil. We do not need anything outside of this strict letter
of the law, for if we do go beyond it, or come tardy of it, we are
liable to make a mistake. The agency that the Lord has given to his
sons and daughters was given to all — the free agency to choose be-
tween right and wrong, and that agency makes us free, for the Lord
has said, "If ye abide in my truth, then are ye free indeed." Now,
whenever any man enters any organization, secret or otherwise, that
takes from him a certain degree of that free agency to choose between
right and wrong, and makes of him a servant, to do as he is told in
certain matters, quite irrespective of the righteousness or justice of
the case, or of the right or wrong of the case, then that man sur-
renders that much of his free agency which he ought not under any
circumstances to surrender. Let me explain.

In the Bishop's Office the question was brought directly before
us as to the right of a man to labor on some work which the Church
was doing, whether he belonged to a Union or not. We decided that
we would hire Union men or non-Union men ; if they were good work-
men, we would not ask the question as to whether they belonged to any
Union or not. But we were confronted with this difficulty : one of our
brethren who is a Union man, refused to work on the job with a
non-Union man, a good member of the Church. In this case we said,
this brother who does not belong to your Union is a good man, a
good neighbor, a good citizen ; you meet with him at the Sacrament
table and administer the Sacrament to the Latter-day Saints. You
may be appointed as a block teacher and go around teaching the
Saints their duties. You may both be called on to administer to the
sick, and you go and offer your prayers, but when it comes to work-
ing together, you, our brother who has a Union card and belongs to
the Union, will not allow this good brother of yours to work for his
living, nor will you work with him in any way, because he does not
belong to your organization. Now we ask, do you think this is right
or just or fair? He, a good man, every way acceptable, a good work-
man, to be deprived of working on a job because he refuses to sur-
render any part of his God-given agency to any organization whatso-
ever on the face of the earth? Or, because in this he refuses to put
himself in a position where he may be called upon to do a wrong;
for it is a wrong to say your own brother shall not have the priv-
ilege of earning a livelihood because he will not join your organiza-
tion. On the other hand, a man comes along who is not the best kind
of a citizen, who may be more or less disreputable, who is rather a
discredit to good citizenship than otherwise, and yet he can show a
Union card, and you, my good Latter-day Saint brother, who belongs

182 IMPROVEMENT ERA

to the Union, you will work with him; you will allow him to work
for his living and join with you in this work, although he is not one-
twentieth part the tithe of such a man as your own brother in the
Church is, whom you refuse to work with.

This Union brother acknowledged that such was practically the
case, and yet he was powerless to help it. Now, my brethren and
sisters, don't you see that this man had surrendered so much of his
free agency to this Union of his that he was not permitted to do that
which was plainly and clearly right toward his own brother in the
Church? Therefore, I say, the counsel which has been given all along
by the leaders of the Church, to refrain from joining any organiza-
tion, or giving your allegiance, or any part of your allegiance to any
society or Union which will interfere in the least degree with your free
agency, is good sound counsel. Of course, one will say that he has
a right to join whatever organization he pleases. It is true that he
has that right, but his duty, his plain simple duty, is to protect lr's
brother and the interests of his neighbor. A good many people stand
upon their rights, as they say, and quite often forget their duties.
Our duties to our God ; to our Church ; to our families ; to our neigh-
bors; these ought to be first, rather than prating so much about our
rights.

Our President said this morning, in his opening remarks, we be-
lieve in freedom, in liberty; liberty for a man to work without being
threatened to be killed if he does work. Now, I grant you that some
of these organizations have done much to bring a greater share of
prosperity to the laborers than they otherwise might have had, but
would you say that a man working for you as a farmer, and you are
right in the midst of your fall work, getting up your potato crop, per-
haps you have a car that must be loaded; it is urgent that this work
be done, because there is a storm coming, and your potatoes will be
frozen, and what not, — and right then, knowing your extremity, this
man who knows the circumstances you are in, and how much you,
need his help, he yet says, I am going on a strike; it is my right to
strike, and I quit work right here. Would you say that this man was
doing the right thing, doing his duty when he leaves the farmer in
that predicament, just because he knows he can inflict an injury upon a
man whom he is working for? That spirit is wrong, and most repre-
hensible.

The President of the United States, in one of his messages, said
that there is just as much sacredness in the right to work as there is
in the right to strike. Well, I thought in analyzing that statement,
What sacredness is there in the right to strike, if by striking I injure
my brother? Am I not commanded as a Latter-day Saint, and di-
rected always by the revelations of the Lord, to love my neighbor?

Now, the impression I would like to leave with you is this, that
the counsel which has been given all along by the leaders of the
Church is good, safe, wise counsel, and that is, to join no organization
which interferes with your doing the right thing under any and all

THE CHURCH AND THE LAW OF THE LAND 183

circusmtances. Of course, we must be charitable. We must be for-
giving. The Lord has given us some very high ideals in respect to
this matter, in these latter-day revelations through the Prophet Joseph
Smith.

You can read in the 98th section of the Doctrine and Covenants a
revelation which was given just after the first mobbings and drivings
in the state of Missouri, how the Lord instructed the Saints that, al-
though they had been mobbed and plundered and driven and robbed
of their property, yet the Lord puts the high ideal before them in that
revelation, that they must forgive even their enemies, and even though
that enemy has not repented. If he has repented, thou shalt forgive
him seventy times seven; but "If thine enemy" — mark you, thine
enemy — "if thine enemy comes upon thee and repents not, neverthe-
less thou shalt forgive him." This is the wonderful standard of for-
giveness which the Lord holds up to this Church. It is of the same
spirit that we read of as being exhibited on Calvary, when the Lord
of all said, "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do."
I say again, we should remember our duties as well as remembering al-
ways what we call our rights; the duty of the husband to his wife, to
love and to honor and protect, and a good many of us husbands have
learned to obey as well.

We do not need to join any organization in the world outside of
the CHurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to be absolutely free,
and this Church has given evidence, let me say in plainness, of its de-
termination to keep and abide the laws of the land, and to observe
them, and to uphold them. This Church did that in the principle of
plural marriage, which it surrendered in obedience to law, even though
the Church did not believe the law to be Constitutional. But when
it was declared Constitutional the Church surrendered, and has obeyed
the law. Could any stronger evidence be given that this Church stands
for obedience to the law?

We should uphold all the laws of the land whether we like them
or not ; so long as they are the laws of the land, we should observe to
uphold them. The prohibition law ; the cigarette law, whatever law
is enacted ; and while it stands on the statute book, it should be obeyed.
If we will remember the first great commandment, "Thou shalt love
the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and might, mind and strength,"
that will always keep us within the law, obeying the law, respecting
the law in whatever land or country the Saints may abide. And if we
will think more of our duties, and a little less, perhaps, of our rights,
we will be gainers thereby, and we will not break any law of the land,
for the Lord has said, "He who observeth the law of God hath no
need to break the law of the land."

My brethren and sisters, I hope that we will go home from this
conference determined as a great body of people, to stand for law,
order, righteousness, justice and peace on earth and good will among
all men. I believe as the Prophet Joseph has written, that the day
would come when there would be so much of disorder, of secret com-

184 IMPROVEMENT ERA

binations taking the law into their own hands, tramping upon Consti-
tutional rights and the liberties of the people, that the Constitution
would hang as by a thread. Yes, but it will still hang, and there will
be enough of good people, many who may not belong to our Church
at all, people who have respect for law and for order, and for Con-
stitutional rights, who will rally around with us and save the Consti-
tution. I have never read that that thread would be , cut. It will
hang; the Constitution will abide and this civilization, that the Lord
has caused to be built up, will stand fortified through the power of
God, by putting from our hearts all that is evil, or that is wrong in the
sight of God, by our living as we should live, acceptable to him.

I bear witness to you, my brethren and sisters, that this is indeed
the work of the Lord. I am not only sure of it; I am certain of it.
I am certain as to our position in respect to this being the special
work of our Father who is in heaven. I am absolutely certain that
it is the power of God unto salvation to all nations, kindreds, tongues
and peoples ; to everyone that will hearken. These men, the presi-
dency of this Church, and the other leaders of the Church with them,
have received that authority which enables them to give guidance and
direction in that way, that "the great sweep of the Kingdom of God
will go on and on, conquering, and to conquer until every knee shall
bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ to the glory of
God the Father.

May the Lord hasten it in his time, and prepare us for the great
days that are coming, that we may go forth and preach the gospel of
Jesus Christ in all the world, build up his Kingdom, and give our
first allegiance, and no divided allegiance, but our first and sole al-
legiance, to God and country, through Jesus Christ. Amen.

There are no Unknown Dead

By Dr. George H. Brimhall.

Among those who go forth to perish
That peace may come to earth,
There are no unknown dead.

The All-Seeing Eye beholds them;

In His book of Love is written their lives

And the manner of their death;

And when the reveille of the resurrection shall sound,

They will awaken to the enjoyment of a millennium

For which they gave their all!

The Church and Missionary Work*

By Elder David O. McKay, of the Council of the Twelve and President of the

European Mission

It seems but a very short time indeed since I faced a similar
audience, on my return from a very recent mission. The interval
between that home-coming and the present time leaving seems very
brief indeed.

I am very sorry that Elder Whitney's ill health necessitates his
release. I met him about ten months ago. He was doing excellent
work and feeling apparently well, although he informed me then that
he feared he would have to undergo an operation. I rejoice with
you in the latest word that he is better, and I hope when I shall greet
him, that I shall find him well on the road to his usual normal, vig-
orous health, and I shall be pleased — I will assume it here — to take
the best wishes of this magnificent congregation to him.

During the few moments that I shall occupy this afternoon, I am
going to ask you to become missionaries, and thus render help to your
sons and daughters who are in the mission-field. I am going to
ask you to make their work more effective.

TEXT

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill
cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a
bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in
the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see
your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

THE CHURCH A CHURCH OF MISSIONARIES

There are approximately two thousand men and women represent-
ing this Church in the missionary field. There should be, in a gen-
eral way, about two hundred and fifty times two thousand missionaries
in the organized wards and branches of the Church.

WHAT THE jMISSIONARIES ARE PREACHING BY PRECEPT AND EXAMPLE

These boys out in the field are sweet and clean and whole-
some, and they are striving to live exemplary lives, that their example
might accord with their precept. I have met them, as you know, in
many missions, and, invariably, they are fit, noble representatives of
their parents and of the Church. Their skin is clean, their eyes clear,
their lives wholesome, and men and women who are opposed to our
teachings are forced to acknowledge that the missionaries of the
Church are noble young men and pure women. O, I grant you there
are men and women in the world who are suspicious, many who are
suspicious of them. Sometimes, too, once in a great while — a mis-
sionary man forgets himself and brings disgrace upon the body of
the Church, but the percentage of such failures, thank heaven, is

*Delivered at the Semi-Annual Conference, Oct. 1922.

186 IMPROVEMENT ERA

extremely small. The two thousand missionaries are preaching by
"plain living and right thinking" the efficacy of "Mormonism."

A SUMMARY OF CHRIST'S MESSAGE TO THE WORLD

In addition to that, they are proclaiming a wonderful message.
The other day I read, in a very carefully written book, on the life of
Christ — a summary of his teachings to the world. The eminent
writer said:

"Christ came to the world and gave to the world a message, which con-
sists, first, in giving to men a true conception of God. Second, in teaching
men how to attain a larger and freer life.""

Then, basing the third message, or the third lesson upon the fact
that a man's actions depend upon his motives, he draws this con-
clusion that,

"Christ's message meant the ultimate development of God's kingdom or
rule upon earth, which is destined to transform society. Loyalty to the divine
King — the common Father of all mankind, is the strongest and only universal
bond that can bind all men together. His teachings, therefore, have a large
social, as well as individual significanfce, for they contemplate a universal
brotherhood or democracy in which all men are united in the common desire
to do the will of God."

I think this a good summary of the message that your sons and
daughters are giving to the world. They teach to all men a true
conception of God. They invite the world to investigate the great
declaration that God and his beloved Son have appeared in person in
this dispensation. What a glorious message ! Second : they are teach-
ing men the means of attaining a higher and freer and diviner life.
Say what you will, that is their only purpose, and they prove their
sincerity in it by leaving their loved ones, leaving their vocations, spend-
ing their own money, or the hard earnings of their beloved parents,
in trying to induce men to hear that message. Third: they can stand
before the people of the world and say that "Mormonism" does con-
template, in its ultimate consummation, the transformation of society ;
and who, conversant with world conditions today, will say that the
time is not ripe for society to be transformed!

THE WORLD REJECTS THEIR MESSAGE

But the world does not believe this message. We have heard in
this conference about evil designing men and women, who say, in sub-
stance, that our missionaries teach one thing, but the people prac-
tice another at home. Such accusations but emphasize the importance
of preaching to the world by example. It seems to me that this
conference has been characterized by the gospel of application, and so,
I feel in perfect accord with the spirit when I ask that you who con-
stitute part of the two hundred and fifty times two thousand mission-
aries, in the organized stakes and branches of the Church, preach by
example these glorious things — prove to the world that you are not
only a God-fearing, but a God-trusting people.

THE CHURCH AND MISSIONARY WORK 187

RESPONSIBILITY OF ORGANIZED BRANCHES AND WARDS TO EXEMPLIFY
IN DAILY LIFE THE DOCTRINES AND PRINCIPLES OF THE GOSPEL

If you ask me where I first received my unwavering faith in
the existence of a God, I would answer you: in the home of my
childhood — when father and mother invariably called their children
around them in the morning and at night, and invoked God's bless-
ing upon the household and upon mankind. There was a sincerity
in that good patriarch's voice that left an undying impression in the
children's souls; and mother's prayers were equally impressive.

I ask today that every father in the Church see to it that, in all
sincerity, he impress his children with the reality of the existence of
God, and with the reality that God will guide and protect his chil-
dren. You carry that responsibility. Home is one of the units —
the fundamental unit of society. Let the sincere investigators who
believe more from what they see than from what they hear, find, upon
investigation, that "Mormons" prove by example in the home, by de-
votion, and in their service to God, that they believe and know that
God is their Father. I knew before I heard my father testify that he
had heard a divine voice, that he lived near to his Maker; and I know,
by a nearness to that same Eternal Father since, that father told the
truth when he said he received in answer to prayer this admonition
given in audible tones : "Testify that Joseph Smith is a prophet of the
living God." Such is the reality of the true Latter-day Saints' con-
ception of God the Father.

IDEALS

Secondly, I would ask that every parent in the Church teach men
by example how to obtain a higher and freer life. Missionaries are
pointing the way; we should follow it. What a strength it would
be to the missionaries, if they were able to point back to the thou-
sands and thousands of villages and find in each a community that
introduces into its life the higher and better things. We have heard
much throughout this conference about the necessity of pure individ-
ual living. We have heard that no Latter-day Saint can indulge in
"boot-legging" with impunity. He is not only violating the law, but
he is casting reflection upon his people and upon his nation. Latter-
day Saints should uphold the officers in their efforts to ferret out
these law breakers. No Latter-day Saint can enter into a gambling
den without casting reflection upon his people and without violating
the statutes of his state. A few gambling dens are still found, I
am informed, in Ogden and Salt Lake City at least, and it behooves
Latter-day Saints to stand by the officers in their efforts to close these
places of vice. Latter-day Saints do not smoke. If your houses are
contaminated with tobacco smoke, your appeals to God are not going
to be very availing in the minds of your children. Pray to him to
give you strength to overcome the habit, and I promise you God will
give you that strength. I care not how viciously the habit is fixed
in your body, God will not forsake you if you call to him in sincerity.

]88 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Obedience to the laws of health, and of the Spirit will lead to the
higher and freer life.

Lastly, missionaries are preaching that the gospel is destined to
transform society. We believe it and we believe that from an economic
standpoint, from a social standpoint, from a spiritual standpoint, we
can offer to the world today such practical ideals in organized so-
ciety, that if applied to the world, would alleviate much of the suffer-
ing and misery in this poor war-ridden, famine stricken, selfish world.
Take for example the little simple work of your fast day; your con-
tribution to the poor. I remember mentioning that before an audience
in New Zealand, at Auckland, about six hundred non-members being
present. We took that as the theme because a day or two before the
meeting a paper had published the fact that citizens had discovered
some suffering women and children about whose condition nobody
seemed to be aware. Following the meeting, a man said : "Do you
really mean to say that every member of your Church is visited every
month by some officer?" "Yes, that is the plan." "And that the
amount contributed once a month on your fast day is sufficient to meet
all the needs of the poor?" "Yes, that is the fact. All do not do it,
however," I confessed. Ah, that is it. Don't you see — all do not
comply. All do not come up to the standard. O, fathers and moth-
ers, what an example to the world in economic salvation if we could
only live up fully to this economic principle ! Let us determine here
and now to raise the percent per capita, of our fast offerings. Let us
raise it from twenty cents to a dollar. Though that is not what it
should be, what a lesson to the distracted government in this war-torn
world today!

I was in Syria when some of your fast offerings came over there,
and realized, as Brother Booth gave out relief to those suffering
Armenians, that one hundred cents m every dollar went to those
poor people, because of the perfect organization of the Church. The
minimum overhead expense was not deducted from your contribu-
tions. Let us return home from this conference determined to live up
to this one principle, in addition to the many others that have been
named. Then, as the boys and girls are preaching and bearing testi-
mony to the efficacy of "Mormonism," they can, with pride,- point
back to the home ward and say, "You may find these principles exL
emplified there." Remember, "example is more forcible than precept."
People look at you six days in the week to see what you mean on
the Sabbath.

Therefore, with this idea that we are giving to the world the
same message which Christ gave, namely: leading the people to a
true conception of God, their Father, teaching them how to obtain
higher and freer life, bearing witness to them that it is possible in
this day, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel, to
transform society ; let us resolve this day to "Be noble ; and the noble-
ness that lies in other men sleeping, but never dead, will rise in

THE CHURCH AND MISSIONARY WORK

189

majesty to meet our own." In this way we can make our light so
shine among men, that they seeing our good works may be led to
glorify their Father in heaven."

God help us to be near to him, for I testify to you he is ever
ready to be near to us. ] pray, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

MORGAN FATHERS' AND SONS' OUTING

Top: Scene in Hardscrabblet. Bottom: The Company

For a number of years a feature of summer work in the Y. M. M. I. A. has
been outings of this character. Duru.g the summer of 1922, several thousand
fathers and sons spent two or three days together in camp life in the moun-
tains. The Morgan, Utah, outing was taken in Juii<e.

Hvitra-manna-land and Lamoni

By J. M. Sjodahl

A rather interesting letter, referring to the authenticity of
the Book of Mormon, was received some time ago, at the Lat-
ter-day Saint mission headquarters in Chicago, and forwarded to
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, of the Council of the Twelve,
and Church Historian, Salt Lake City. The writer is Mr. A. 0.
Ueland, a lawyer of Halstead, Minn.

The gentleman explains that he has read the Book of
Mormon and found the historical part of it of interest, as it
relates to a "white race settling in America in prehistoric days."
He frankly admits that "it appears improbable that Joseph
Smith could have just made up the whole story." The writer
also states that he used to be quite a student of Norse sagas and
legends and especially that relating to the early voyages of
Norsemen to our shores.

He refers particularly to the storv of Are Marson, who.
towards the close of the 10th century of our era, is said to have
set sail from Iceland. About twenty years afterwards, as the
saga has it, one Gudleif Gudlougson, having drifted out of his
course from Iceland to Ireland, came to a semi-tropical coast,
where he and his crew were captured by the natives.

"Then came an old man, with long white beard, who seemed to be a kind
of chief. He questioned them in the Norse language, and when he learned
who they were, inquired about parties both in Norway and Iceland. After
aiding them to get their ship repaired, he disclosed that he was Are Marson,
sent greetings to his relatives in Iceland, and cautioned against further
attempts to explore the land, because, he said, he would soon be dead, and
it would be difficult to say how the natives would treat strangers after he
was gone. The crew got back safely, touching Ireland on the return, thence
to Norway and, finally, Iceland. He brought the greetings to Are Marson's
relatives, one of whom, a child of Are's cousin, was Thordhild, the mother
of Leif Erickson, thus establishing the conclusion that Leif had heard
about a land in the west before starting on his voyage of discovery.

The country where Are Marson was found, the Norwegians
called "Hvitra-manna-land." There is also another legend from
approximately the same period, of a Norse viking, Bjorn Breid-
vikakappa, who drifted west from Ireland and came to Hvitra-
manna-land, so that name became established in the sagas. After
having related these legends, Mr. Ueland says:

"Now, it struck me that there might be some connection between those
ancient records of your Church, and the sagas. This idea is original with

HVITRA-MANNA-LAND AND LAMONI 191

me, and may look preposterous, but none of the scholars of Norway, who
have treated upon those legends, seem to know anything about your tradi-
tions. If they had known the same, would they not have attempted to con*
nect the two? It would seem from your records that those white races kept
records down from the fifth century. * * *I am not enough of a scholar
to analyze just what the word 'Hvitra-manna-land' means. Literally, it would
seem to be, 'White men's land.' Now, did that description only refer to a
lighter blue hue than for instance, the negroes, whom they called "Bluemen,"
or the Skrellings, believed to have been Esquimaux?"

The letter from which this quotation is taken seems to me
to be an evidence that the Spirit of the Lord is at work, even
outside the boundaries of the Church, to establish the authen-
ticity of the Book of Mormon by such evidence as the intellec-
tual, educated portion of the world can readily grasp.

Mr. Ueland's account of pre-Columbian visits of Icelanders
to the North American continent is an able summary of sagas
preserved in ancient documents, such as those published more
than three quarters of a century ago, by the learned Danish
scholar, Charles Christian Rafn, in Antiquitates Americanae.
I may be permitted to add what the scholarly von Tschudi
(Peruvian Antiquities, p. 5), speaking of Scandinavians in pre-
historic America, says:

"This, however, is certain, that the monuments, inscriptions, arms,
utensils, tools, and remains of the dead, recently found in the states of
Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and elsewhere, attest an entrance of strangers
into the country, much more considerable than any of those which the
manuscripts we have mentioned bring to our knowledge."

Mr. Ueland refers to the tradition concerning Hvitraman-
naland and, naturally, supposes that there may be some connec-
tion between that tradition and the historical part of the Book
of Mormon.

Scholars have suggested that Hvitramannaland, or, as the
word means, "White Men's Land," may have been so called
by the Indians on account of white-clad Catholic priests, or
missionaries, who had founded colonies there. This is, of course,
conjecture. Is there no explanation more plausible?

Is it not possible that the word "Hvi>amannaland" is the
Icelandic translation of an Indian name of a country, which the
Icelanders, as soon as its meaning became kown to them, rend-
ered into their own tongue? We do the same thing when we,
for instance, call a certain territory in Germany the "Black
Forest," instead of Schwarzwald. But is such an Indian word
known to exist, or to have existed?

Dr. Brinton (Myths of the New World, p. 207) says, "The
Algonquins, with one voice, called those of their tribes living
nearest the rising sun 'Abnakis,' our ancestors at the east, at the
dawn; literally, our white ancestors." I have underlined the

192 IMPROVEMENT ERA

word "white." This proves that the great and numerous stock
of Indians known as Algonquins have preserved a tradition
concerning a land of a "white" ancestry. — Hvitra-manna-land.

If we inquire further into the meaning of the word Abrtaki,
we find in the Lenape dialect the word Lumon-aki, which Rafin-
esque (The American Nations, Vol. 1, p. 129) translates "white
country" — the very identical word which the Icelanders, in their
relations and records, may have translated "Hvitramannaland,"
just as Rafinesque does.

Abn-aki and Lumon-aki are, of course, variants of the same
word, abn being an easily understood abbreviation of Lumon,
and both meaning "white," while aki is the Algonquin, or at
least Lenape, for "country."

But where did the pre-Columbian Indians get the word
Lumon (or Laman) for "white"? The Book of Mormon alone
answers that question. That volume, as is well known, tells us that
one of their ancestors was named Laman, which means '"white" ;
for laman is the same as the Hebrew, Laban, and that is the
meaning of that word. But Indian tradition, by pointing to a
"white" ancestry, or a "white" country, also proves, if I read
the story correctly, that American natives, or some of them, are
"Lamanites;" that is, descendants of an ancestor whose name
was "White," or, which is the same, "Laman." And the Ice-
landers, in transmitting to us their own valuable records, are
witnesses ;© the fact that the Indians with whom they came
in contact had such traditions centuries before Columbus ap-
peared in this hemisphere.

In the Book of Mormon (Alma 21:22) we read of the "land
which was under the reign of King Lamoni." It seems to me
that if we consider the meaning of names, and the information
conveyed either in historic or legendary form, it is difficult
lo efface the impression from one's mind that the Lumonaki
of the Lenapes and the Hvitramannaland of the Icelanders, con-
sidered merely as words, are derived from the Land of Lamoni,
or from Laman.

In Yucatan we find the word in the form of Labna as the
name of a city near Uxmal. Laman is, according to Reclus, the
name of a tribe of the Ulva stock of Indians, possibly the same
as the Ramos. The river Mico, also called Bluefields, was called
Lama by the Indians (Cyrus Thomas, Indian Languages of
Mexico and Central America, Bur., of Am. Ethn. Bull. 44, p.
79 ) . In South America, we have in the vicinity of Truxillo, the
Lamanos, or Lamistas, (Brinton, American Race, p. 216) and the
Lamas on the river Maranon (Ibid. p. 285). So that the Book-
of-Mormon name Laman has been perpetuated among the In-
dians and is found to this day in various forms all over America.

HVITRAMANNALAND AND LAMONI 193

Mr. Ueland says he does not "believe in the truth of the
sjory about those golden plates."

May I ask then, what about the testimony of the three wit-
nesses ? They solemnly affirm that they saw the angel,heard the
voice from heaven, and handled and examined the plates. They
were men of good character, of sound mind, more than average
intelligence — men whose testimony was as good as that of any
American citizen. Martin Harris was a weU-do-do farmer.
Oliver Cowdery was a school teacher and, later, a lawyer. David
Whitmer was, if njpt in a worldly sense, a successful business
man, a highly respected American citizen. How would their
testimony be received by an impartial jury?

I asked that question in a priesthood meeting, recently, and
Mr. James H. Moyle, one of our prominent lawyers, who was
present, and who, in his younger days, had heard Martin Harris
speak, and had interviewed David Whitmer at Richmond, Mo.,
said in substance that in a case involving property rights, for
instance, the decision of which would depend on the crediblility
of the testimony of the three witnesses as given in the Book
of Mormon, the court would be bound by the rules of evidence
to find in favor of the side represented by them. I believe this
to be absolutely true.

Bits of Philosophy

Be a child in heart but not a boob in action.

The more you get after people the farther you get away from
them.

It is a poor bargain to trade a spirit-thrilled life for a fun-
fizzled life.

There is only one step from heaven to hell, but a million
from hell to heaven.

The depth of our regret for the imperfect in our lives is
the measure of our progress.

It is better to giggle at the silliest thing in the world, than
to be sad about your own sadness.

Simple faith, plain humility, genuine sincerity, moral cour-
age, and gentle charity constitute a great soul.

Nephi Jensen

Greetings

The Improvement Era sends greetings to its friends through-
out the world with a wish that the inspirational song of the
heavenly hosts to the shepherds of old may find lodgment in the
hearts of the nations and be a comfort to every individual and
every family group in the land, On earth peace, good will toward
men."

We believe that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the panacea for
the ills of the nations and for individuals; and furthermore, that
every man, woman and child should be willing to submit them-
selves to its influences, and to sacrifice, if necsssary, their own
selfish desires and wills for the good of those around them, keep-
ing in \iew the great commandments: "Thou shalt love the
Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with
all thy mind, * * * an(J thy neighbor as thyself."

The celebration of this Christmas holiday should be di-
rected to these thoughts and ideas. Every soul should put them
into practice, not alone for the one day, but for every day of
their lives. If this unitedly could be done, and it can be, what
a marvelous reformation and change would take place, both in
the affairs of nations and individuals ! Let us work to that end,
so that we shall do our part to bring the rest and peace of our
Lord and Savior to the world!

A Day for the Aaronic Priesthood

An item in the Priesthood Quorums' Table in this num-
ber of the Era calls attention to an order of the First Presi-
dency, requesting bishops in the Church to arrange for the
Aaronic Priesthood, under the direction of the bishops, to take
charge of the ward Sacrament meeting on Dec. 10. A suggestive
program is also given, to which attention is called. This idea
of permitting the Aaronic Priesthood to exercise this function
in the Church is a splendid movement which should be encour-
aged. Every preparation should tend to make these meetings

EDITORS' TABLE 195

successful. Many will recall the auspicious special services held
on May 15, last, commemorating the restoration of the Aaronic
Priesthood. All who were present at these inspirational meet-
ings and listened to the young men of the Lesser Priesthood,
were heartened with faith that the great work which has been
established, known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, is going to he safe in the hands of the youth of Zion,
who are thus exercising their calling in the Priesthood.

On the present occasion the discussion of tithing is to be
emphasized. Tithing is one of the grandest doctrines in the
Church when thoroughly understood. It furnishes the whole
community with a means of assisting in the upbuilding of the
Kingdom of God. It gives them something to work to; and if
there is any one thing above another that provides impetus for
the accomplishment of any great work, it is the vision of it.
When the vision of the early prophets of this Church was shown
to the people and it was told them they should become great
and mighty in the midst of the Rocky Mountains, they were
willing to pass through great tribulation uncomplainingly to
make it a reality. Its fulfilment is before us.

A vision of what this Church is to become through the
principle of tithing, and what it is to accomplish for the indi-
vidual, will give zeal in our activities and enthusiasm in our
labors. The young men holding the Priesthood need prophetic
sight to get the best effort that is in them to the front. The
idea of a meeting of this kind is therefore excellent. It gives
them opportunity for expression and a desire to perform the
labors under the Priesthood with understanding, foresight, and
eagerness. We trust that not only the bishops, but that all
the members of the Aaronic Priesthood will get the spirit of
this great movement, and make it one of the big events in the
Church. All of us, both young and old, will thus obtain a
clearer understanding of the great law of tithing, which obeyed,
will sanctify Zion, make it a land of the pure in heart, and us
worthy to abide therein.

Earthquakes and Desolation

The destruction caused by the seismic disturbances in our
South American sister republic, Chile, is one of the great calam-
ities .of the present day. The reports show that the effects of the
tidal waves that followed the earthquake shocks, were felt for a
distance of 1,200 miles along the coast, from Antofagasta on

196 IMPROVEMENT ERA

the north, to Valdivia in the south, and that on an area of 140
miles by about 250, scarcely a human habitation is left. The
casualties amount to thousands and the loss of property is im-
mense.

The scientific explanation, as gi\en by Captain T. J. J. Lee,
government astronomer at the Mare Island navy station, is that
some portion of the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, perhaps as
large an area as one of our smaller states, sank, owing to a dis-
turbance of the underlying strata by steam, produced by the
water coming in contact with the hot lava. The steam would
press the lava towards the shore and cause upheavals, while
the susbidence of the ocean floor would first draw the water
towards the depression, and then send some of it back in waves,
before the equilibrium was fully restored.

The South American west coast is liable to such disturb-
ances. The entire coast line seems to be slowly rising out of
the deep. Sir Clements Markham says it has been upraised from
the sea since man took possession of the adjacent land, and
lived by raising maize and cotton. (The Incas of Peru, p. 200.)
And the supposition is that the entire Andean mountain chain,
and its lofty, snow-capped peaks and beautiful mountain val-
leys, were created in remote geological times, by means of just
such mighty forces as those whose work man still views with
awe and wonder.

But earthquakes and consequent desolation have also an-
other message to this generation than that which comes through
the deduction of the sciences, important though this is and
full of interest. Their voice is, above all, one of warning.

In 1831, our Lord gave a revelation through the Prophet
Joseph Smith, in which he stated that earthquakes and desola-
tion in divers places would be among the signs by which we may
know that "the times of the Gentiles" are nearing the end.
(Doc. and Cov. 45:30-33.)

He said in the same revelation (v. 26), "The whole earth
shall be in commotion, and mens hearts shall fail them." "And
also cometh the testimony of the voice of thunderings, and the
voice of lightnings, and the voice of tempests, and the voice of
the waves of the sea, heaving themselves beyond their bounds."
(Doc. and Cov. 88:90.) The voice of such calamities is, there-
fore, a warning to be prepared for the end of the present dispen-
sation and the beginning of the new, during which the nations
of the world will be united under the scepter of our Lord, Jesus
Christ, who owns this earth and is its lawful King and Ruler;
when, in other words, his kingdom will be established, and his
will done on earth as it is done in heaven.

EDITORS' TABLE

197

Messages from the Missions

A Message from Africa

The accompanying picture shows the elders laboring in the Cape con-
ferences. The gentleman standing second from the right is Brother Peter
L. Stoman, who traveled a distance of two thousand miles from Salisbury,
Rhodesia, for the purpose of being baptized. Such examples of faith and
effort encourages one to sow the good seed, for one cannot tell when it will
fall in fertile soil.

The free advertisement department manages to keep us constantly before
the public. The following ,from the Cape Argus, is the latest contribution:

"The spiritual needs of Sea and Green Pointers are just now receiving
very close attention from two plausible young men, who explain that they
are making a house-to-house visitation with the idea of bringing people to
realize the wickedness of sin and the need for basking in the light of the
true Church, which, in this case, is apparently that of the Latter-day Saints.
There have been several complaints of the methods adopted by these 'mis-
sionaries,' who, in nearly every instance, pay their visits during the absence
of the male members of the household. | Before leaving they press litera-
ture dealing with the Book of Mormon on those whom they visit, and in-
variably promise to make another call.'"

Missionaries, reading from left to right, front row: Conference Presi-
dent Clinton M. Black, Mission President James Wyley Sessions, Marc
Sessions, Magdalen Sessions, Mission Relief Societies and Y. L. M. I. A.,
Rosamonde Sessions; Mission Secretary Aaron T. Peters. Back row, First
Counselor Branch Presidency Walter O. Hanson; Second Counselor Branch
President John Walsh; Orville S. Cox; Gordon H. Sears; Wendell C. Sevy;
Frank W. Nye; Royal D. Crook; Peter L. Stoman, of Salisbury, Rhodesia;
and Clarence W. Jones. Branch President Thomas Wilson could not be
present when the picture was taken. — J. Wyley Sessions, Mission President

198 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Success in Minnesota

Elder V. M. Jones, writing from Duluth, Minnesota, October 5, encloses
this photograph of the missionaries laboring in Duluth, Minnesota, and
Superior, Wisconsin. The elders have met with success throughout the en-
tire summer, not only in .trading, but in Book of Mormon work and holding
meetings. Several people have been added to the fold. They all enjoy
the spirit of their calling and are enthusiastic in their work, and feel that
the hand of God is in it all. They rejoice in the knowledge of being worthy
of his blessings.

Missionaries, left to right; back row: Fontell Peterson, Glenwood;
Hedvig Mamer, Millville, Utah; Minette McArthur, Lowell, Wyo.; front,
R. E. Farmer, Clifton; E. A. Evans, Raymond; V. M. Jones, Dayton, Idaho;
Samuel Park, Tooele, Utah.

%\ Twelve Baptized

Mission Secretary Marion George Romney, of Newton, Sydney, Aus-
tralia, reports that the New South Wales conference of the Australian
mission is on a good sound basis, and while the progress is not startling,
the cause is steadily gaining ground. The elders, under the able leadership
of President Don C. Rushton, and with the support of the Saints, are
pursuing with vigor the work of carrying the glad tidings to the people.
Sunday, July 3, conference was held at Sydney, and though weather condi-
tions were unfavorable, the attendance was very good, some of the Saints
having come from over 100 miles away. It was the first conference since Elders
McKay and Cannon were present with them, and naturally the memories
of the people reverted to that auspicious occasion, and the experience
and advice received came forcibly to them again. For the first time in the
history of the Church in Australia, there were three Sunday Schools repre-
sented in one conference, the schools being located at Newton, Bankston, and
Newcastle. Favorable reports were given by the superintendents. Other
meetings were held at 2:30 and 7 p. m., when President Rushton was the
principal speaker. Elder Romney concludes: "During the past six months
we have baptized twelve people into the Church. Only one of them was

EDITORS' TABLE

199

taken from the children's record. Many advancements have been made in
the Priesthood, and the cause in this conference is steadily gaining ground."

| I | |

m f

^f"

*& 0^

Missionaries laboring in the New South Wales conference of the Aus-
tralian mission, left to right, standing: Terah L. Black, Raymon P. Nelson,
Harold R. Jackson, Bryan S. Collett, Claudius Tolman, Neils W. Oldroyd,
Arlie V. Bean. Sitting: Alvin Englestead, William L. Jones, Mrs. Don C.
Rushton, Don C. Ruhston, mission president; Marion George Romney, Con-
ference president.

Two Hundred Baptized

Elder Royden E. Weight, secretary of the Netherlands Mission, writing
under date of October 31, says: "I have labored as secretary of the
Netherlands-Belgium misison for two years. As a mission we are enjoying
wonderful success, our meetings being well attended. There are plenty of
investigators to visit every day. We are distributing thousands of tracts
and booklets monthly, and many of the people are interesting themselves in
our message. We do not at present have very much opposition. The pros-
pects for the future are very bright, and our baptism record for the past
year has been excellent, and will yet amount to more than 200 before the
end of November.

An Inspiring Testimony

Elder Ralph S. Gray, Leeds conference, Bradford, who is on a mission
in England, and who is a graduate of the School of Mines and Engineering
of the University of Utah, writes to Dr. Richard R. Lyman: "I enjoy the
work more every day. Although I have been here seventeen months, I feel
as if my mission is just beginning. President Grant's counsel to parents to
leave their sons and daughters in the mission field as long as possible, is
splendid counsel. I trust that I shall be able to fill the desires of the Church

200 IMPROVEMENT ERA

authorities in this respect. Mother informs me that never before has she en-
joyed such bounteous blessings as since I was called into the service of the
Master. Thank God for my birthright, the Priesthood I hold, and the herit-
age of gospel blessings that have come to me. My sincere prayer is that
I may have strength to continue the work of my mission when I return home,
and that my present enthusiasm in the work shall continue."

Sunday School Organized

Elder LaPhene Peterson, writing from Galesburg, Illinois, October
20, encloses this portrait of the elders laboring in that district as follows:

Left to right, J. N. Transtrum, St, Charles, Idaho, presiding elder at Gales-
burg; Laphene Peterson, Hyde Park, Utah, conference president of north-
ern Illinois; C. A. Neuenschwander, Salt Lake City, working at Galesburg;
and H. Harris Lloyd, mission superintendent of Sunday Schools.

"On September 24 a Sunday School was organized at Galesburg, Illinois,
local brethren being put in charge, C. W. Custer, superintendent; A. F.
Lindbloom, first assistant; L. Wl Brockelburt, second assistant. A teacher-
training class was organized to help the teachers place the gospel truths
before the children. We have a lively and prosperous branch here. We
have four elders, four priests and one teacher, local brethren, holding the
Priesthood. The Relief Society is a powerful unit in our work. People
of the branch are faithful in attending to their duties — one hundred per-
cent attendance not uncommon. We find the Era valuable in keeping us
in touch with the work, both at home and abroad, aside from the excellent
teachings found in its pages."

Bay of Islands Conference

Five elders are laboring among the Maori people in this conference
and two with the Europeans. StandingT left to right: — Henry J. Armstrong,
Salt Lake City; Harold J. Cassity, Provo, presiding over the European
work; Jonathan R. Bennett, Holden; Russel Layne, Lewiston. Sitting:
Melvin C. Stewart, Clinton; all of Utah; Alvin T. Maughan, conference
president, Weston, Idaho; Joseph M. Stephenson, Holden, Utah.

The Bay of Islands conference includes the extreme northern portion
of the North Island. We have a membership of two thousand sixty-five
souls in this district of which the greater majority are Maoris, who are a
very sincere and devoted people. The work is progressing nicely, and,
although we have had a great deal of wet weather) during the past three
winter months, making travel very hard and inconvenient, we are pleased

EDITORS' TABLE

201

to report twenty-one baptisms and many good prospects. We have an or-
ganized local priesthood in several branches; the brethren are putting forth

untiring efforts and are accomplishing excellent results. We are regular
readers of the Improvement Era, appreciate its good instructions, and wish
is continued success. — H. J. Cassity.

Nucleus for a New Branch

Elder Osmond O. Jorgensen and Obra Pearce, the latter of Beaver, and
the former of Logan, Utah, are located in Aberdeen, the granite city of
Scotland, where, he says: "Every-
thing is built of native granite,
and with the clean streets and
beautiful flowers and shrubbery, it
gives the city a pleasing appear-
ance. The people here are not very
hasty to take up with the message
we have to give them, but we have
been given courteous treatment in
our open-air meetings and tracting,
which have been very successful the
past summer, and our efforts have
been rewarded by the addition of
seven people to the Church. We
hope this number will furnish a
nucleus, for a branch of the Church
which we are endeavoring to es-
tablish here. Being refused the
privilege of using the baths in the
city we baptized our converts in
the sea, a fact which was men-
tioned in write-ups in a number of
local papers, and papers all
throughout Scotland."

202

IMPROVEMENT ERA
The Thames Dialogue Co.

Elder Abram M. McFarland, conference president, Thames, New Zea-
land, under date of September 14, sends this picture of the Thames Dialogue
company, which is made up of officers and members of the Sunday School
and Mutual Improvement Association. The elders laboring in the Hauraki
district are standing at the back, and are: Warren Tonks, president of the
Maori work, Victor, Idaho; Abram M. McFarland, Ogden, Utah; James A.
Thornton, American Falls, Idaho ; Willard J. Warner, Preston, Idaho. "The

company gave a concert on the 26th of July in the Thames Miners' union
hall for the benefit of the Thames branch. About three hundred Saints and
investigators came to listen to the program, consisting of dialogues, songs,
dances, recitations, etc. The confidence of many friends was gained through
this wholesome entertainment. Since the completion of the Thames chapel
the elders and Saints have been very successful in obtaining friends and in-
vestigators, so that the work is progressing rapidly here, and we pray for
continual success."

Birmingham Conference Reports Energetic Work

Edgar W. Jeffery, conference president of the Birmingham conference,
England, under date of August 10, says: "The elders here are laboring
energetically to present the message of life and salvation to the people of
their respective districts. The attitude of the people is one of indifference,
not only toward the Latter day Saints and "Mormonism" but toward every-
thing of a religious nature. So deeply concerned are they with the physical
things of life that they have neither time nor inclination to listen to things
spiritual. Notwithstanding, we have been making progress. Our meetings
are better attended by strangers and investigators, and in spite of the
recent campaign waged against us by the press, the state, and the pulpit,

EDITORS' TABLE

203

we are more generally and favorably known by the fair-minded, truth-seek-
ing portion of the population than ever before."

Elders of the Birmingham conference, sitting, left to right: Francis R.
Kirkham, Salt Lake City; John O. Hughes, Mendon; Edgar W. Jeffery,
conference president, Delta; Tyler H. Barton, Kaysville; George C. Wareing,
Salt Lake City, Utah. Standing: Earl N. Palfreyman, Springville; William
C. Thornley, Smithfield, Utah; George R. Follick, Montpelier, Idaho; J.
Elden Brown, Draper; Edward W. Southwick, Lehi; Esdras Whittaker,
Ogden; Vernon W. Maughan, Wellsville; Marvin L. Nielson, Garland,
Utah.

Favorable Conditions in Holland

Elder Sam R. Carpenter, Arnhem, Holland, June 9 says: "It seems
to me that there never was a time of greater progress in the Church than
at present. That vital energy shown by our grand-parents is still making
itself manifest among their children. The pulsing life found in the
"Mormon" Church is witnessed in no other organization. To me the
reason is that the religion of the Latter-day Saints arises out of individual
conviction and love for the truth, and is not like that of the world gen-
erally, arising out of custom and habit. Five missionaries and about
fourteen Saints left Holland for Zion last Wednesday. We are being
blessed very much in our work, and are receiving new hands to help.
Conditions are favorable here at present. We are in no way hindered in
spreading our message. We held a very successful conference on the
21st of May, and are reaching many in our trading work. In very deed
we are in a wonderful field of labor. We recently visited what they call
here the Holy Land Foundation, a movement of the Catholic Church, to
bring into life as much as possible the land and customs of Jerusalem at
the time of the Savior. The work is very instructive. They have a re-
production of Golgotha, the tomb, the stall where Christ was born, the
gates of Jerusalem, etc. We had a real instructive tour, a priest explaining
to us the situation so that we had quite an insight into some of the

204 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Catholic principles. The 'Foundation' is within walking distance of the
German border. We took the side trip across the line, and were so able
to send cards home through Germany, took some pictures, and for 37c
bought sufficient paper money to provide souvenirs for our friends."

Tahitian Mission has a New President

Elder H. Kennard has been succeeded as president of the Tahitian mis-
sion by Elder O. B. Peterson.

New President Danish Mission

Elder Alma L. Peterson of Huntsville, Utah, has been called to preside
over the Danish mission. Elder Peterson performed a mission to Norway in
1910-12, and presided for some time over the Aarhus conference. Elder
Carl Peterson, of Ogden, who now presides over the Danish mission, has been
honorably released and will return home, when the new president arrives.

Elder LeRoi Snow, Secretary Eastern States Mission

At the General Board meeting of the Y. M. M. I. A. on November 15,
1922, General Superintendent George Albert Smith reported that Elder LeRoi
C. Snow was about to leave for the Eastern States mission. He congratulated
Elder Snow on his appointment as secretary of that mission and extended
him the thanks and appreciation of the General Board for his faithful and
excellent service as a member of the Board. He was granted a leave of
absence. He was also presented with a copy of the combined Book of Mor-
mon, DoctrbJe and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price as a token of the
love and esteem of the members of the Board. In response, Elder Snow
stated that he regretted to leave the Board again, having once left to reside
in Arizona, but returned in order that he might be in closer touch with the
Snow family and also to resume his associations with the General Board.
He considered it a great honor to be called to his present position, and with
pleasure, accepted the call. He complimented the Board upon their splendid
labors and assured them that he would continue his work in the mission in
behalf of the Y. M. M. I. A.

Our Slogan

We stand for a life of purity,

That is more than a passing trite.
For a life whose acts are a surety,

Of thought that is clean and right;
We stand for a firm allegiance

That is more than a boasted deed,
For a true and loyal obedience

To the code of our fathers' creed ;
We stand for the hope predestinate

That is more than a platitude
When the "pure in heartl" shall consummate

The Master's Beatitude.
Mesa, Arizona Bertha A. Kleinman

The.Lesser Priesthood to Take Charge of Meetings December 10

As announced in the November number of the Improvement Era, the
First Presidency of the Church have approved a recommendation of the
Presiding Bishopric to set apart the Sunday of December 10, as a day
for the discussion of tithing, when the Sacrament meetings are to be con-
ducted by the young men of each ward in the Church who hold the
Aaronic Priesthood, under the direction of the bishop of the ward.

Recently, the Presiding Bishopric sent a leter to each of the bish-
ops throughout the Church, requesting them to prepare a suitable program,
adapted to the local conditions and circumstances, and have such program
announced in the various organizations and meetings between the time the
letter was received and the 10th of December. The Presiding Bishop
likewise in this letter, suggested the following items as appropriate for a
program for this occasion:

1. The recitation in concert of the law of tithing, Sections 119, 120,
Doctrine and Covenants.

2. A recitation of the third chapter of Malachi, commencing with the
ninth verse.

3. The teachers and priests assigned to give five minute talks on:
(a) The history of tithing among the Hebrews, (b) Purpose of tithing. (3)
How to tithe, (d) Who should pay tithing? (e) When to pay tithing, and
the blessings that are promised to those who faithfully observe this im-
portant law of the gospel.

Members of the Aaronic Priesthood should be elected to open and
close the meeting with prayer, to act as ushers and to perform such other
duties as may be required at the service on that day.

If possible, musical exercises should also be given by the Aaronic
Priesthood; and all the singing should be in harmony with the spirit of
the restored gospel, such as: "And Angel from on High;" "Come, all Ye
Sons of God;" "What was Witnessed in the Heavens?" and similar inspir-
ing musical numbers.

Undoubtedly the bishops can make this one of the big events of the
wards, and it will aid in encouraging the congregation, as well as the young
people, in obtaining a better understanding of the law of tithing, being an
impetus to have them apply it in their daily lives.

Annual Visit of the Bishop to the Peopled/of the Wards

To enable the bishops to become better acquainted with the people
and their home-life it has become the custom in the Church that they and
their counselors shall make an annual house to house visit. The First
Presidency have again expressed their desire that such annual visit be made
again this year, and the Presiding Bishopric have notified bishops in the
wards of the Church to this effect. If the membership of the ward is so
large that it is not possible for each family to be visited by the bishop
or his counselors, it is suggested that the ward be divided into districts, and
brethren holding the Priesthood be called to assist in this important labor.
During the visit it is especially required that an effort should be made
to see that every member of the Church in each ward is enrolled upon
the records of the ward. Where their membership is not recorded, such
information should be given to the bishop, and inquiry made of the Presid-

206

IMPROVEMENT ERA

iug Bishop's office for their certificates of membership. Their visits are
very necessary, and are instituted to encourage and instruct the members
of the Church concerning their religious duties. It is also an opportunity
to give such counsel and advice as may be necessary, and to encourage the
Saints to pay their tithes and offerings; to attend Sacramental meetings, and
to remember their prayers and family duties. The bishops are enjoined
to commence the work early, so that a complete visit may be made before
the end of the year.

Many Baptisms Performed

Stanley J. Tingey, writing from Joplin, Missouri, reports that the
work in Webb City and Joplin branches is progressing rapidly.
"Many baptisms have been performed in these branches in tie past year.

Mutual Improvement Association meetings are very successful. Mission-
aries, left to right: Elder F. Pratt Hawks, Annie E. Cloverly, Almira Miller,
E. Dean Orme; back row, Stanley J. Tingey, J. Conrad Wangsgaard, Harry
A. Steinagel, Clyde F. Curtis, and George B. Lyon."

What They Say

"The Era is by far the most popular publication we have among the
elders." — Elder Earl B. Snell, secretary of the Swiss-German Mission, Basel.

"We deem the Improvement Era a most worthy companion in promul-
gating the gospel and desire its continued advancement." — L. W. Doxey,
Fort Worth, Texas.

"We enjoy the Improvement Era much. It is a big help in our mis-
sionary labors, giving the people opportunity to see some of our literature,
and what the Latter-day Saints publish and read at home." — Elder WUliam
C. Warner, Perth, West Australia.

A Great Convention

About 480 boy scout executives devoted eight days to the serious study
of the problems of America, recently, at Blue Ridge, North Carolina. There
were representatives from England, France, Canada, and from every state
in the Union, all of which gave emphasis to the local and international
character of Scouting. There were, besides representatives of many organ-
izations such as the American Red Cross, the American Legion, Inter-
national 5f. M. C. A., National Catholic Welfare Council, International Sun-
day School Association, Community Center and Playground Movements,
which assured the conference of their hearty cooperation in the extension
of the movement. Each day was divided into ten distinct program sections.

half of which were for the whole
conference, and half for group
meetings. This provided oppor-
tunity for the study and discus-
sion of practically every phase of
scout executives' work. Organiza-
tion, recreations, exhibits of local
council methods, camping, and
other parts of the scout program,
constituted an elaborate means of
study between sessions. There
were also motion pictures of scout
activities, nature study hikes into
the mountains, and rest periods, fit-
ting the delegates for the strenu-
ous work of the conference. There
was a training school for scout
executives, under the leadership
of Chief Scout Executive James
E. Wlest, and other leaders. "Ser-
James Wilder, head of Sea-Scouting, vice," the battle cry of the scout
Boy Scouts of America; Oscar A. Kirk- movement, was here discussed. Re<
ham, Executive Director Y. M. M. I. ports on the principle phases of
A., Salt Lake Council, Boy Scouts of the scout executives' job were dis-
America, and Daniel Beard, National triLuted in printed form in ad-
Scout Commissioner, Boy Scouts of vance of the conference so that the
America, who sent the following greet- executives came together to prepare
ing to the Boy Scouts of the inter- to discuss these reports and take
mountain region: "Boys, you live on action upon the recommendations.
the backbone of our land; therefore, I Problems, such as, how to reach
expect you to become the backbone the "under boy"; men must set
of our Scout organization." — the example, exemplified by Prof-

(Signed) Dan Beard, Chief, essor Herman H. Home, of the

New York University in the words :
"Men, be what you want your boys to become;" business efficiency, and
moral qualities, were also stressed. The chief scout executive demanded
that executives face facts, discuss them, deal only with facts of the Boy

208 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Scout movement: its membership, its methods, its right to public confi-
dence and support. There were special delegates from England, France,
and Canada. — Captain Francis Gidney, camp director of the British Boy
Scouts; M. J. Guerin-Des Jardins, who represented three scout organiza-
tions in France, and John Stiles, from the Canadian Boy Scouts, whose words
concerning practical experience in scouting in their own countries, received
deep attention.

The singing of the conference at the "fellowship hour"' was noteworthy
as a definite expression of the under-current of spiritual life which charac-
terizes the successful scout executive. The special "fellowship hour" on
Sunday, on the mountain top, brought all the delegates together, who list-
ened to representatives of the three great religious bodies in this country,
Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish, speak on scouting and religion. The
speakers agreed that scouting with its fine code of practical service, is a
tangible expression in every boy's life of the faith in which he is trained.
As a matter of fact, the churches of America have furnished over ninety per
cent of the scout leaders, including scout masters. The conference went on
record in support of the National Council's recommendation that no scout-
ing activity should take place on Sunday, which is not in harmony with the
religious conviction and customs of the church people.

The conference was strong for more expert training of our scout lead-
ers, for wider expansion of sea scouting, for a renewed emphasis on the
romance and adventure bound up in the Boy Scout program, and for an
aggressive measure to secure volunteer leadership essential to meet the de-
mands of the boyhood of America for this form of training. The National
Council reported that the affairs of the Boy Scouts of America as an or-
ganization were never in better shape. The membership today is well over
the half million mark, some 120,000 of whom are volunteer leaders, scout-
masters, members of local councils and others. This second bi-ennial con-
ference of men who are giving their full time to leadership in this movement
was regarded by the officers and friends of the Boy Scouts of America as
bringing this important work for boys to a point of departure in its his-
tory, from which it is certain a great expansion of the movement will take
place. Hundreds of thousands of boys are waiting to join the movement.
The measures adopted at the conferences were all for more effective ad-
ministrative leadership. Through the cooperation of many national organ-
izations, including churches and schools, the volunteer leadership in scout-
ing, so indispensable for the maintenance and increase of boy membership,
will doubtless be received.

Scout executives George A. Goates, Ogden; Victor Lindblad, Logan,
and A. A. Anderson, Provo; and Dr. George R. Hill, Logan, were in
attendance.

Scout Executive Oscar A. Kirkham had the privilege and pleasure of
taking part in the program, and he presided at one of the general services,
at which he had the honor of being introduced to the French delegate of
the conference. Later, through the courtesy of this delegate, M. J. Guerin-
Des Jardins, he was made an honorary member of the Boy Scouts of France.
As a general summary of the conference, this might be of interest, taken from
The Scout Executive:

This conference reiterated its loyalty to church, home and school;

This conference has solemnized us,

America expects so much of us.

This conference has humbled us;

We have made such little progress.

This conference has heartened us,

It has given us new hopes and aspirations and new tools to work with.

MUTUAL WORK 209

This conference has challenged us,

It has given us the vision of great and glorious conquest.

Suggestive Method for Securing Members

The Y. M. M. I. A. of the Church has a membership of 42,000 at
present. In order to obtain the desired 50,000, it means that our number
must increase to the extent of slightly more than 20 per cent. The mem-
bership committee of each ward should provide a list of non-members and
divide the names among their members and additional workers. The com-
mittee and workers should make a special study of the people to be ap-
proached. It is of the utmost importance that methods of approach be
given most thorough consideration as well. Organize thoroughly the forces
to be applied in this campaign and provide for a system of regular reporting
and systematic checking. It is urged that the membershipi committe eof eacb
stake and ward read carefully the various methods of securing new mem-
bers as given in the Handbook, and that they seek the Lord for inspiration
and ability to reach the heart of prospective members. Stimulate the
workers with the thought, "He can who thinks he can."

The Association itself can aid in the work: (1) By proper example
by its officers. (2) By having officers who understand tbeir business, and
will apply themselves. (3) By good class preparation on the part of the
officers and present members. (4) By a first class social and activity pro-
gram.

Leadership Week

At the Brigham Young University has been announced for the week
commencing January 22. The program for this year will follow some-
what the general plan as established last year and which was so very suc-
cessful. New features and lecturers will be included on the program of
the various departments so that not only new subject matter but also new
method of attack will be introduced. It is hoped by authorities of the insti-
tution that the attendance will be even more representative than was the
case last year, although over half of the stakes had someone in attendance
last year. Leadership Week is conducted under the auspices of the B. Y. U.
Extension Division.

Have an Objective

Thomas A. Beal. Member- of the General Board

In order to develope faith and initiative one must carry some responsi-
bility. Only by doing things for ourselves do we come to realize fully
the importance of them. Things foreign to us are not as interesting by
any means as those to which we have contributed. That is, that which is
part jof our making, which we have added to, is the thing in which we are
most interested. Those on the bleachers watching a football game are
interested in their team's winning, but they cannot possibly be as interested
as those who are actually in the game. In other words, we want to be in the
game. The thrill of success is worth all the effort.

But no one ever succeeded without work. Things do not come simply
with the asking. Effort must be put forth on our part. By work and faith
we may accomplish almost any human task. Did you ever read of any great
man having succeeded without work. I think not. If you will read the
lives of any of our great men, you will find that they not only put in the
customary eight hours a day, but often twice that amount. But more
than work and faith is necessary in order to succeed. One must, in addi-
tion to these, have an objective. Too many of our young men are going
through school and through life without an objective. They are like a boat

210 IMPROVEMENT ERA

upon the sea without a rudder and are^iossed hither and thither with
each wind that blows. They do not know where they are going. What
young men need today is a goal toward which to constantly direct their
efforts.

Often it has become my duty to help young men find themselves.
To get them thinking as to what they want to be in life. As to where
they are going. I frequently ask my students what their objective is. After
a young man, by careful analysis, has determined what his objective in
life is, then he has half won the race. By diligent work and faith he is
then sure to succeed.

Fidelity to work coupled with an objective, is, then, the principal
problem. Whatever one undertakes he should do so with the idea of mak<
ing it the best. Efficiency should be his motto. Fidelity to work not only
makes for success but for efficiency, too. Let me explain. In 1911, or
thereabouts, Princeton and Yale were rivals for the football championship.
On Friday, preceding the game at Princeton on Saturday, the English pro-
fessor assigned a theme to his class to be handed in on the following Mon-
day week bence. The game came off Saturday as scheduled, and Princeton
won. The following Saturday a return game was played on the Yale cam-
pus. Again the Princeton team was successful. The next Monday when the
English class convened and the teacher called for the papers, one after
another of the students answered unprepared, giving as their reason that
they were so interested in the two games that they couldn't think of any-
thing else. When the teacher was about to give up in despair, the last man
on the roll, Sam White, handed in his paper. Not only did he have time to
captain the Princeton team, and not only did he win the two games as the
star player, but he also had time to prepare his theme for his English in-
structor. This illustrates fidelity to work. Sam White was faithful to
every trust placed in him.

In your "M" work, young man, first have an objective, determine
what you want to get out of the "M" work, have your eye upon the mark,
then put your faith and best efforts into it and success shall be your reward.

Bremerton Mutual

The M. I. A. work is prospering greatly in the Bremerton branch, West
Washington conference. Brother Emil Lundstrom, as president of the
young men, and Sister Sydney Minnette, as president of the young ladies,
are both putting forth every effort to make this year a greater success than
any preceding year. These two are aided materially by the other officers
and branch members, all of whom appear to take a great deal of interest in
the M. I. A. work.

In a recent drive, 100 per cent of the members paid their fund. But
this is not the only line in which they are succeeding. In all other points,
tending for 100 per cent efficient, they are showing marked success, and
as the officers say, will not be satisfied with less than 100 per cent efficient
for 1922-23.— Abrctm H. Cannon.

What is the Hour of Fate in a Persons Life? — 7 p. m.

Why?

This is the answer:

A person's waking hours are divided between industry and leisure; to a
majority of mankind, seven p. m. marks the end of work and the beginning
of leisure.

It is the hour a person makes a choice of the kind of leisure he is to
have.

If you turn to leisure which means improvement of your mind and body
and soul, you tvin; if otherwise, you lose.

MUTUAL WORK 211

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose
his own soul? What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

The M. I. A. stands for a pure life through clean thought and) action.

Ten Reasons why you should attend the M. I. A.

1. It places the boy and girl in companionship with the best elements
in the community.

2. It gives unusual social advantages, and provides wholesome recrea-
tion under proper leadership.

3. It affords them an opportunity to express themselves before the
public, which in itself is a valuable training for the duties of life.

4. It enables them to discover their possibilities and to render actual
service to others.

5. It satisfies every condition and want usually supplied by social
societies, literary organizations and private clubs; and it teaches young men
and young women proper conduct at dances and socials.

6. It develops the young man and boy in athletics, helpful games and
scout-craft, and teaches the girl the essentials of home-making.

7. It affords them training in music, public speaking and story-
telling, and helps them to find) their life's work.

8. It gives them something good to do; it keeps alive in them the
ideals of their noble ancestors, and holds them in harmony with the spirit
of the gospel.

9. It offers opportunity for the study of religious, ethical, social and
industrial questions of the day fcsm a "Mormon" point of view, and under
the influence of the spirit of the gospel.

10. It gives them pride to know that they are members of an organiza-
tion of a hundred thousand active young people working for the spiritual,
social, and intellectual advancement of its membership.

The presidency and "officers of the 7th ward Mutual Improvement
Association, Logan, Utah cordially invite you to become an active member
through attendance at our regular services, every Tuesday evening at 7:30
p. m.

On the Summit of Mt. Putnam, 9000 Feet Above Sea Level

In the early morning of August 17, 1922, fourteen boy scouts of Troop
5, Hatch ward, Idaho stake, left for a two days' hike to the mountains.
George M. Gooch, now deputy commissioner of Idaho stake, planned and

212 IMPROVEMENT ERA

supervised the hike. They reached camp about 2 o'clock, which was situ-
ated some 15 miles away at the foot of the glorious Mt. Putman. The
greater part of their time was spent in hiking to various points of interest,
and they had wrestling matches in the afternoon, and songs, games, and
stories at the evening campfires. The outing was keenly enjoyed by all the
scouts, and they experienced a few adventures in break-downs, loss of
lunch and lack of water, which proved that they were real scouts.

The Spirit of Scouting
By President James H. Robinson, of the South Davis stake

Scouting as the stake presidency sees it is a wonderful developer. It
holds up to young men ideals of noble character, it illustrates the qualities
essential to lofty achievement, it stimulates, encourages, and inspires our
boys to be and to do something in the world. It teaches them how to
acquire practical power and how to succeed in life. It also teaches them
how to be cheerful and happy and to look on the bright side of life, and
if there be no bright side, to polish up the dark side and make it worth
while. It gives to boys healthy bodies through exercise and proper living.
Good bones are better than gold; and tough muscles, than silver; and
nerves that carry energy to every function are better than houses and
lands. Heart-life, soul-life, hope, joy, and love, are true riches.

Franklin said money never made a man happy yet; there is nothing in
its nature to produce happiness. The more a man has the more he wants.
Instead of filling a vacuum it makes one. A great bank account can never
make a man rich. It is the mind that makes the body rich. No man is
rich, however much money or land he may possess, who has a poor heart.
Boy Scout work makes the heart rich and the life full, as we view it. If
a man's heart is poor, that man is poor indeed, though he own and rule
kingdoms. He is rich or poor according to what he is, and not according
to what he has.

Some men are rich in health, in constant happiness and cheerfulness,
in that fine temperament which floats them over troubles and trials enough
to sink a ship load of ordinary men. Others are rich in disposition, family,
and friends. Boys, be so amiable that everyone loves you, so cheerful that
you carry an atmosphere of jollity constantly around with you.

And, of course, we have the right to expect that the good Boy Scout
has learned all these lessons that he may turn out to be a good man. Now
we all know that the chances are strong that he won't be much of a man
unless he is a good deal of a boy. He must not be a coward or a weakling,
a bully, a shirk or a prig. He must work hard and play hard. He must be
clean-minded and clean-lived, and able to hold his own against all comers
and under all circumstances. It is only on these conditions that he will grow
to be the kind of man of whom we can all well be proud.

Let him set his aim high, not forgetting to put his shoulder low, de-
termined that through cheerfulness and hard work he shall accomplish
something in the world.

A Healthy People

The annual death rate in Utah is only 8.2 persons per thousand popu-
lation, as compared with 16.5 persons per thousand population in the
United States at large. Dr. W. A. Evans, of Chicago, a noted hygienist, in
an article published in the Chicago Tribune, October, 1920 said: "Of all
the states, Utah has the highest birth rate, the lowest death rate and the
least sickness among babies."

MUTUAL WORK
Y. M. M. I. A. Statistical Report, October, 1922

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801

13

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109

268

141

208

723

70

198

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Carbon

360

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54

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35

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Cottonwood

782

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91

181

420

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130

298

1750

16

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165

173

201

405

944

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289

698

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406

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129

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378

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79

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143

339

43

55

50

124

272

North Davis .

423

8

8

73

59

86

95

313

54

30

50

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188

North Sanpete

800

13

8

153

65

82

123

423

4

6

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North Sevier .

270

6

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50

55

144

36

40

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113

North Weber

644

17

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104

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271

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73

60

196

Ogden

750

10

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79

71

166

214

530

71

63

107

165

406

890

13 | 10

72

103

10'5

201

481

64

69

86

143

362

Roosevelt ....

325

10' | 10

I 77

104

55

101

337

44

49

27

58

178

San Juan ....

226

4

4

27

50

44

61

182

14

40

25

37

116

363

6

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80

105

317

52

61

38

88

239

South Davis

497

8

8

62

77

125

176

440

49

44

62

117

272

South Sanpete

543

10

6

46

61

59

62

288

42

51

60

49

202

South Sevier

300

7

4

41

21

51 1 32

145

41

21

51

32

145

380

12

7

39

10

76

54

179

32

4

51

34

121

409

8

5

33

39

79

64

215

27

28

52

55

162

375

9

6

42

62

75

76

255

33

40

51

53

177

Maricopa ....

368

8

8

55

132

82

99

360

45

73

69

71

258

St. Joseph . . .

510

13 | 7

36

44

48

87

215

26

22

34

60

142

Bingham ....

500

12

11

80

184

172

156

592

69

107

88

96

360

Blackfoot

514

13

10

81

98

78

118

375

56

57

46

52

211

330

8

6

46

67

66

62

241

29

46

44

43

162

181

6

6

41

62

29

64

196

35

37

24

50

146

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339

11

8

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85 | 70

282

42

54

41

33

170

665

13

12

114 | 153

185

217

669

83

114

115

165

477

370

11

6

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40

65

202

42

32

36

47

157

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340

15

7

48 1 24

66

68

206

32

22

35

50

139

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160

9

6

33 | 57

35

39

164

17

36

20

25

98

Shelley

349

8

8

67

99

79

109

354

53

52

52

72

229

Big Horn ....

298

6

6

118

132

86

336

74

74

61

209

| 190

7

5

'36

45

28

59

168

San Luis ....

210

4

4

41

42

62

56

201

37

37

50

23

147

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334

11

9

77

76

102

95

350

57

46

59

56

218

325

6

5

33

64

59

66

222

Union

158

6

6

38

76

27

28

169

33

43

23

20

119

99

5

3

21

19

20

19

79

15

12

17

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Lethbridge . .

247

10 7

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56

71 | 251

40

38

26

36

140

Note. — The forty-five stakes reporting make a very good showing
for October. Stake officers will please stir up the ward secretaries
to report promptly. There is no excuse. It is their part in the associa-
tion game to be dependable.

214 IMPROVEMENT ERA

Y. M. M. I. A. Efficiency Report, October, 1922

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The first snow of the season, at Ogden, fell on Mt. Ogden, Oct. 12.
There was a light rainfall in the city.

The value of Utah livestock is estimated at $22,250,511, in a tabulation
by the state auditor completed Oct. 16.

The British Parliament urns dissolved, Oct. 26, by royal proclamation,
and the new was summoned to meet Nov. 20.

The coronation of King Ferdinand of Rumania, and Queen Mary, took
place Oct. 15, in the public square at Albajulia, in the presence of a vast
crowd.

An extra session of Congress was called, Nov. 9, by proclamation by
President Harding. It convened Nov. 20, two weeks in advance of the
regular session.

Great Britain paid $50,000,000 to the United States in October, a first
instalment on her debt to our country. Another like payment was looked
for in November.

Isaac Guggenheim died, Oct. 10, at Southampton, England. He was
known as an American capitalist and copper magnate. His death was
sudden and unexpected.

Snow and rain fell all over Utah the last days of October and first
days of November, ending a "dry" season" which has lasted since August.
The change was welcomed by farmers and stock raisers.

The Richmond tabernacle was dedicated, Oct. 29, at the Benson stake
quarterly conference, by Elder George F. Richards. The building was
begun twenty years ago, and finished at a total cost of $49,814.65.

Indictments by the Utah state grand jury were returned, Oct. 27, against
twelve coal dealers of the state and lumber dealers in Salt Lake City,
for having combined to raise or to maintain high prices on their products.

Justice Wm. R. Day resigned Oct. 24, his position as associate justice
of the U. S. Supreme Court, to take effect Nov. 14. He resigned in order
to assume his duties as a member of the American-German claims commis-
sion.

A new Italian ministry was formed, Oct. 30, by Benito Mussolini,
composed of four different political parties. The supposition is that the
new government will support France at the coming Near Eastern peace con-
gress.

Henry Wallace Crocket died at Provo, Utah, Oct. 15, after an opera-
tion for appendicitis. He was superintendent of the State Mental Hospital
farm, and brother of the secretary of state. He was a native of Logan, Utah,
46 years old.

Norway was awarded $12,000,000 by the arbitration tribunal which for
several months has been considering the controversy between that country
and the United States involving claims growing out of the requisitioning
of Norwegian vessels during the war.

James Vincent, of Spanish Fork, Utah, died at his home there, Oct. 9,

216 IMPROVEMENT ERA

of ailments incident to advanced age. He was 94 years old, the oldest
inhabitant of the town. He was horn in Rackheat, Norfolk, England, and
came to Utah in 1864.

A terrific explosion occurred, November 6, in the No. 1 mine of the
Reilly Coal Co., at Spangler, Pa. There were 112 men in the mine at the
time of the accident of whom 32 were rescued. Eighty dead bodies were
brought to the surface.

The loss caused jfey the recent coal strike in the United States is esti-
mated at $1,900,000,000, according to Mr. J. G. Bradley, of Dundon, W.
Va., former president of the National Coal Association. The loss in wages
alone was $450,000,(000.

Robert Campbell Gemmell died, Oct. 25, of heart failure on a train
bound for Los Angeles. As assistant managing director of the Jackling
mining properties, he was well known in the mining world of Utah and near-
by states. He was 59 years of age.

Fire destroyed the steamship, City of Honolulu, Oct. 12, 670 miles off
the coast of California. The passengers and crew, numbering 217 souls took
to the life boats, and, thanks to radio messages, sent out before the ship was
abandoned, were rescued by a freighter.

A farewell party for Elder David O. McKay was given in Ogden Nov.
2, attended, according to estimates, by 2,500 friends and well-wishers. Elder
McKay left Nov. 7, for Liverpool, to take charge of the European mission
as the successor of Elder Orson F. "Whitney.

John W . Eslinger died suddenly at his home in Salt Lake City, Nov.
6, of heart failure, 68 years of age. He was apparently in good health
when he retired for the night, but was found dead in the morning. In
1898 he was captain of police in Salt Lake City.

Ex-Kaiser Wilhelm married Princess Hermione of Reuss, at Doran,
Holland, Nov. 5, where he lives in voluntary exile. A contract was entered
into which the bridegroom signed as "Wilhelm II." A religious ceremony
was then performed by the Lutheran priest, Dr. Vogel, former court chap-
lain.

Uncle Sam received fifty million dollars from Great Britain, Oct. 16, as
part payment of interest due on $4,277,000,000 borrowed during the war.
The money was paid through J. P. Morgan & Co., New York, the American
fiscal agent of the British government. Payments are to be made at inter-
vals of six months.

Father Bernard Vaughan died in London, October 31. He was a brother
of Cardinal Vaughan and a famous Jesuit priest. It was Father Vaughan
who, some years ago, during a wave of anti-Mormon excitement in England,
expressed the opinion that the Mormons ought to be "dropped into the
middle of the ocean."

A convention was signed Oct. 10, at Mudasnia, between the representa-
tives of Great Britain, France, Italy, Greece, and the Turkish Nationalists,
by which the Turks are given eastern Thrace, but the straits are neutral-
ized. Conferences are to be arranged for further agreements on peace
terms and the Dardanelles.

The sultanate of Turkey was declared abolislied, Nov. 2, by the Angora
assembly, and a caliph or successor of Mohammed was elected Nov. 18, when
the sultan had fled from Constantinople. By the adoption of an organic
statute, all the functions of the sultan were conferred upon *'the nation,"
thus popularizing the government.

President Heber J. Grant addressed the members of the Chamber of
Commerce, Salt Lake City, Oct. 18, urging the development of the great
resources of Utah. The audience was probably the largest ever gathered

PASSING EVENTS 217

at that great association of business men, and they listened with marked
attention to the earnest, practical discourse.

Authority to build a railroad from Lund to Cedar City, Iron county,
was issued by the interstate commerce commission, Washington, Oct. 21,
to the Los Angles and Salt Lake railroad. The line will be 32 miles long.
It is considered necessary for the development of the iron deposits in
Iron county and the tourist travel to Utah parks and the northern rim of
the Grand Canyon.

Funeral services for Mrs. Geneska Boswell were held at Nephi, Oct.
31, in the stake tabernacle. The deceased was a pioneer of 1847, having
come to Utah in September, that year. She was born in Buffalo, New York,
April 30, 1836, and joined the Church when eight years old. She has lived
in Utah since 1853. She leaves nine children, 47 grandchildren and 102
great grandchildren.

A prohibition ruling by Attorney Gei.eral Dougherty, intended to make
the ocean "dry," was upheld by Federal Judge Learned Hand, Oct. 23, in a
decision against the steamship companies that opposed it. Accordingly
American vessels may not carry intoxicating liquors anywhere, and foreign
vessels, not within the three-mile limit. An appeal has been taken by the
steamship companies to the supreme court.

Elder John Hardisen Pace, died, at Price, Carbon county, Nov. 2.
At the time of his death he was first counselor in the Carbon stake presi-
dency. He was born in Spanish Fork, Nov. 1, 1856. Elder Pace was widely
known in southeastern Utah, having been an active pioneer in the settle-
ment and growth of that part of the state. He was president of the Pace
Livestock Company and was interested in a number of business concerns.

Dr. Lyman Abbott died, Oct. 22, according to a New York dispatch
of that date, nearly 87 years of age. He was editor of the Outlook and has
been famous for many years as clergyman, lawyer, author, and successor
to Henry Ward Beecher, as pastor of Plymouth church, Brooklyn. When
the end came his four sons and two daughters were at the bedside. Dr.
Abbott suffered a severe attack of bronchitis at his country home in Conv
wall-on-the-Hundson last summer, from which he never fully recovered.

Albert Bond, Sr., was buried in the Ogden, Utah, cemetery, Oct. 23.
He died while on a mission to Holland in September, and the remains were
brought to Ogden for interment. Services were held in the tabernacle, with
Bishop Clarence Morris, of the Fourteenth ward, presiding. Mrs. Bond,
who accompanied her husband on his mission, November, 1921, returned
with the body.

The greatest speed attained by any traveler was placed on record Oct.
16, at Mount Clemens, Mich., when Lieutenant Russel L. Maughan, a U. S.
army pilot covered a one-kilometer course at the rate of 248.5 miles an
hour. Aeronautical engineers who witnessed the flight were astounded
and declared that the demonstration proved that there was no limit to the
speed that may be attained in the air. Lieutenant Maughan is from Logan,
Utah. He has just won the Pulitzer aero classic.

Miss Katherine Wells died Nov. 10 at the family residence, Salt Lake
City. She was a daughter of the late Daniel H. Wells. She was born in
this city, and in the early days, attended school here. Later, she graduated
from the University of Deseret. For years she was identified with the C. R.
Savage company and gained a reputation for skill in mounting photo-
graphs and tinting and coloring. She was also identified with the art
department of the State fair.

Bernard Arnold Martin Froiseth died Nov. 4| at his home in Salt Lake
City, after a prolonged illness. He was a prominent real estate and min-

218 IMPROVEMENT ERA

ing man, but perhaps better known as a pioneer publisher of maps of
Utah. He was born in Trondhjem, Norway, 83 years ago, and came to
Minnesota in his early boyhood He was colonel in the army during the
Civil War. He came to Salt Lake City in 1869. On June 8, 1921, he and
his wife celebrated their golden wedding.

Utah has more beet sugar plants than aniy other state, according to
reports from Washington, Nov. 4. Of the ninety establishments reporting in
1921, eighteen were located in Utah, sixteen each in Colorado and Michi-
gan, nine in California, eight in Idaho, four in Washington, two in Wyom-
ing and one each in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana,
and Washington. Colorado, the leading state as regards production, in
1921, produced 29 per cent of the total value in that year.

The resignation of Lloyd George from his post as the prime minister
of Great Britain was officially announced, Oct. 19. The entire cabinet
goes with him. The action was taken in consequence of a decsion by a
number of the Commons and government ministers, to appeal to the
country as the Conservative party. The vote was 187 to 87, and ended the
coalition for which Lloyd George was the sponsor. Lloyd George has held
the office for seven years — three of the World war — the most critical period
of British history His successor is Bonar Law, whom the king summoned
on the advice of Lloyd George.

The dirigible C-2 ivas burned Oct. 17 on its return transcontinental
flight from Ross Field, California, to Langley Field, Virginia, and seven
persons were injured. According to Major H. A. Strauss, commander of the
ill-fated ship, the accident was due primarily to the pulling out of the
fabric of the envelope during a strong wind. A board of inquiry was ap
pointed by Major Royce, commander of Brooks Field, to investigate the
accident. The "blimp" was the largest of the U. S. Army. Major Strauss
said it was valued at possibly $70,000, but originally cost the government
$270,000.

Thomas Nelson Page died suddenly Nov. 1, on his estate in the town of
England, Va. He was a lawyer and author, and at one time, U. S. am-
bassador to Italy. He was born April 23, 1853. In 1893 he moved to
Washington. After marrying Miss Anne Seddon Bruce in 1886, Mr. Page
resumed his literary work, which he had begun while a student, and finally
devoted his entire time to writing. Most of his stories, which attained wide
popularity, were of southern life. Following the death of his wife, Mr. Page
went abroad and in 1893, he married Mrs. Florence Lethrop Field, widow
of Henry Field of Chicago. She died June 6, 1921. The author had come
to his Virginia home, where he planned to spend the remaining days »f his
life, to begin work on his memoirs as ambassador to Italy durng the Wilson
administration.

An earthquake m Chile, Nov. 11, destroyed several cities and towns, in
the province of Antofogasta, Atacama, and Coquimbo. A tidal wave fol-
lowed the tremors, completing the destruction. The death roll is reported
as exceeding a thousand and the property lo66 runs into millions. Ships
were swept ashore and pounded to pieces against the rocks. The earth-
quake was registered by the seismograph at the- University of Utah, and the
tidal wave was felt in the Hawaiian Islands, indicating violent disturbances
in the Pacific Ocean. Further disturbances were reported from Serena,
capital of the province of Coquimbo, on Nov. 13, and also from Constitu-
cion, the capital of the province of Maule. On the 14th the Pacific Ocean
was still restless. Reports from Antofogasta of that date stated that the
sea ebbed and then came back booming, three times. The entire foreign
corps of diplomats at Santiago, Chile, has tendered their condolences to the
stricken nation.

Integrity Inspires Confidence

JOSEPH WILLIAM TAYLOR

Utah's Leading Undertaker and Licensed Embalmer

21-25 SOUTH WEST TEMPLE

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH

Phones: Wasatch 7600
Both Office and Residence

My Service has the Little Marks of Difference that Make it Distinctive

Improvement Era, December, 1922

Two Dollars per Annum

Entered at the Post Office, Salt Lake City, Utah, as second class matted

Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1103, Act of

October 3, 1917, authorized on July 2, 1918

Address Room 406 Church Office Building, Salt Lake City, Utah

Heber J. Grant, ) ^ ,. Edward H. Anderson, Business Mgr.

Edward H. Anderson, I Moroni Snow, Assistant

CONTENTS

Portrait of Elder David O. McKay Frontispiece

For Christmas Morn. A Poem Alfred Lambourne 95

On Government and Law Prest. Heber J. Grant 97

A Glimpse into the Secret Diplomacy of the Con-

federate States — II Dr. A. L. Curtis 109

Endurato. A Poem Alice Morrill 117

The Feeling of Autumn. A Poem Wallace C. Thompson ..._ 117

The Bennion, Jordan Stake, Scout Band 118

The Gift of Peace. A Story Venice Farnsworth Anderson ....119

Gems of Thought 127

Hearts and Hollyhocks— III-IV. A Story Ruth Moench Bell 128

In the Beautiful Valley of Life. A Poem Annie G. LauritzerJ 137

Large Families Dr. C. L. Olsen 138

By Whose Authority? _ Reinhard Maeser 144

That Lad. A Poem George E. Gibby .... 148

Doing Common Things in an Uncommon Way —

X-XII Dr. George H. Brimhall 149

The Book of Mormon -- _ Selections -155

Are You Honest? Ernest D. Partridge —157

A Call to Repentance B. H. Roberts 159

In the Light of History Dr. James E. Talmage 166

God's Dealings with Mankind Prest. Anthony W.Ivins 170

A Prairie Night. A Poem Frank C. Steele 179

The Church and the Laws of the Land Bishop Charles W . Nibley ... 180

There are no Unknown Dead. A Poem Dr. George H. Brimhall 184

The Church and Missionary Work David O. McKay 185

Morgan Fathers and Sons' Outing 189

Hvitra-manna-land and Lamoni J. M. Sjodahl 190

Bits of Philosophy Nephi Jensen -....193

Editor's Table — Greetings 194

A Day for the Aaronic Priesthood 194

Earthquakes and Desolation 195

Messages from the Missions 197

Priesthood Quorums' Table 205

Mutual Work _ 207

Passing Events 215

(r

WhatCanYouDoBest?

Your success in life depends upon choos-
ing the work for which you are fitted and
then IN LEARNING TO DO THAT WORK
WELL. j

Read this list of well paying occupations
carefully. Select your life's work. The
Utah Agricultural College will prepare you
to make it a successful vocation.

AGRICULTURE — Practical farmer; stock raiser; animal husband-
man; poultry husbandman; dairy farmer; manager of creamery;
range manager; soils expert; crops expert; crops pests inspector;
teacher in agriculture; orchardist; county agent; extension specialist;
agricultural chemist; bacteriologist; expert in farm management;
landscape gardener; botanist; entomologist; veterinarian.

HOME ECONOMICS — Home demonstrator; extension specialist;
teacher in home economics; dietician; rural health expert; nurse;
borne manager; dressmaker; milliner.

ENGINEERING — Agricultural engineer; draftsman; surveyor; drain-
age expert; irrigation engineer; architect; expert in rural sanitation;
expert in road construction.

MECHANIC ARTS — Contractor; automobile mechanic; tractor op-
erator; teacher in mechanic arts; gas engine expert; cabinet maker;
carpenter; iron worker; foundry man; expert machinist; draftsman.

BUSINESS — Banker; expert in marketing; advertising expert; sales-
man; manager of cooperative institutions; business administrator;
private secretary; office manager; typist; stenographer; expert in
agricultural economics; economist; expert in political science;
teacher in commerce.

GENERAL SCIENCE — Artist; musician; librarian; writer. Thor-
ough training given in chemistry, botany, bacteriology, geology,
zoology, entomology, mathematics, foreign languages, English, history,
political science, public speaking, physiology.

EDUCATION and PEDAGOGY— Teachers in agriculture, home eco-
nomics, mechanic arts, commerce and business administration and in
general subjects in high schools and colleges; primarily teachers;
grammar school teachers.

Winter Quarter Opens
Tuesday, January 2nd

Send for special catalog and illustrated
circulars

Utah Agricultural College

LOGAN, UTAH

Clears
Creek;

Vcoal/

^HU;

No Need to Fear
Winter's Cold

If your bins are well stocked with
Castle Gate and Clear Creek Coals.

Ask Your Dealer

UTAH FUEL CO.

Miners and shippers of Castle Gate
and Clear Creek Coals

Gasile
Gate
\Coai

Henager s

Business College

The school with a national

reputation that holds five

world's records

School in session all the year and new students may enroll at any time.
Position guaranteed to all graduates

It pays to get the best

Call or write for full information

HENAGER'S BUSINESS COLLEGE

47 E. Broadway

Phone Was. 1138

SALT LAKE CITY

Fire is No Respecter of Fersons

You may wait 'til tomorrow to insure but the fire may not
"See our agent in your town"

UTAH HOME FIRE INSURANCE CO.

HEBER J. GRANT, & CO., General Agents
Salt Lake City, Utah

The Inter-Mountain Life Issued More New Business

In Utah Last Year Than Any Other Western or Southern Co.

This company is noted throughout the United States for:

Its wise financial policy.

Its low mortality rate.

The attractive policies it offers.

Its liberal Agents' contracts.
There is yet room for reliable representatives within the
Rocky Mountain States. Very liberal compensation will be
granted men who secure these positions.

Inter-Mountain Life Insurance Co.

Home Office — Boston Building,

Salt Lake City, Utah

J. O. Carter, President

Investment
Talks

Number

2

Every dollar you Invest in
one of our Monthly Instal-
lment Certificates is se-
cured by double that
amount in First Real
Estate Mortgages deposited
with the COLUMBIA
TRUST CO. of Salt Lake
City. This is Guaranteed
Safety.

Invest as you save.
Free Booklet on request.

Guaranteed

Securities Co.

*

Investment Bankers

SUITE 206 CLIFT BLD6.
PHONE WASATCH 2830
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH

Electrical Gifts
for the Whole
Family

Gifts both beautiful and useful
are to be found here; — every-
thing from electric trains and
toy ranges to vacuum cleaners
and washing machines.

Utah Po#4& \
LighdCb. s

"Efficient Pubftc , Service"

Everything Electrical for the
Home

SOUTHERN, PACIFIC LINES

SHORTEST AND QUICKEST ROUTE TO
SAN FRANCISCO, OAKLAND, SACRA-
MENTO, AND ALL CENTRAL CALIFOR-
NIA POINTS

Through sleeping cars from Salt Lake City. Round trip
tickets now on sale allowing stop overs at all points. Final re-
turn limit nine months from date of sale.

We handle railroad and pullman tickets to all points on
our lines and it is a pleasure for us to assist you in planning
your trip and making your itinerary.

We quote freight rate, trace shipments, and give general
information on passenger and freight business.

We solicit your patronage and invite you to call. Telephone
or write us for information and service.

Passenger
Wasatch 3008

Telephones

GROUND FLOOR OFFICE
41 South Main Street

Freight
Wasatch 3078

P. BANCROFT, District Freight and Passenger Agent

This Solves It For You!

21

Greeting

Cards

$1.00

(Add 10c for
postage)

Beautiful Xmas Greeting Cards — as-
sortment of 21, no two alike, sent to
you in a charmingly decorated box.
These cards are carefully chosen
from our own varied stocks and rep-
resent individual values up to 25c.
You'll be delighted with them.

Order today.

Why not books for gifts?

DESERET BOOK COMPANY

44 East South Temple

Salt Lake City

WHEN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION THE IMPROVEMENT ERA

^WftMtefc-

For Her Christmas!

— nothing will delight more than
an exquisite box of

dainty Hand Made Chocolates

— famous for their wonderful

centers !

KEELEY'S— Salt Lake

Z.C.M.I. Factory Made

Mountaineer

• Overalls

A splendid Overall that will give
you wonderful service.

ASK YOUR DEALER
FOR THEM.

Is Your life Insurance Beneficial?

The very best there is in Life Insurance issued by

The Big Home Company

You need Our Insurance - - We want Your Business

Beneficial Life Insurance Co.

Heber J. Grant, Pres. STILT L71KB Lorenzo N. StohLV.Pres. & Mgr.

WHEN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION THE IMPROVEMENT ERA